PROVINCE OF SORSOGON

Brief History
A Brief Brush with Sorsogon City History
The name of the place was once spelled as 'Solsogon' if you look at old Spanish maps. The name literally means 'to trace a river upstream'. The name of Sorsogon City has been spelled differently in various occasions during its history. The Spanish explorers got lost upon the discovery of the territory until they reached what is now called Sorsogon Bay. They asked the locals the name of the place and the locals mistook the question as asking for directions. Thus they were told 'sorsogon' or 'solsogon', which meant trace your way following the river upstream, which eventually became the name of the town. The city was overrun by Japanese Imperial Forces in 1942 but was liberated in 1945. Sorsogon officially became a city under the Philippine Republic on August 16, 2000.

Often called the Switzerland of the East, this small town at the end tip of the southern coast of Bicol Peninsula has rolling hills and valleys that are carpeted with varying foliage of mostly untracked tropical soil. Seen as a humble town but with affluent myriad of natural sights and man-made places to explore. These are the unbounded strips of beaches along its coasts, lakes, falls, thickly forested mountains and hotspring resorts comprised together as an ultimate destination for both leisure and adventure tourism.

Cultural Practices
People and culture Festivals Town Fiestas Most of the inhabitants of the province belong to the ethnolinguistic Bicolano and Bisakol groups. Sorsogueos are very religious and fun-loving. Being mostly Roman Catholics, they are active in every festivity celebrated throughout the year. Like any other Filipino ethnolinguistic groups, each town honors their Patron Saint with celebration on its Feast Day. In Sorsogon City, the locals celebrate the Fiesta of the Patron Saints Peter and Paul on June 2829 of each year. Another featured attractions during town fiestas are the Traveling carnivals that sets up near the town center or its vicinities.

Downtown Bulusan located East of the Province Kasanggayahan Festival The festival, celebrated in the whole province in the last week of October, commemorates the founding of Sorsogon as a province. Festivities include a series of cultural, historical, religious, agro-industrial and economic activities, showcasing the provinces abundant agricultural products, particularly food and decorative items. Pili Festival in Sorsogon City honors the Pili nut and tree which is indigenous to province. The festival coincides with the town fiesta of Sorsogon City. Celebrations include street dancing by locals donning pili nut costumes, cooking competitions, fireworks displays, and even a nutcracking session along the road by the locals. Minorities Minorities include Muslim immigrants from Mindanao, who engage in street vending and small shop businesses. A mosque is situated inside Sitio Bolangan on the outskirts of the city. A significant small Chinese population are owners of hardware stores and commodity shops and dwell in the business center. Indian communities are also present and are Hindus. They are typically known to engage in money lending businessescolloquially called "five-six". Education and language Education is highly valued as an investment for the future, as illustrated by the many state and private schools and colleges which dot the province. Almost all people understand Tagalog and Bicolano. The local language spoken by Sorsogueos varies from district to municipalities.

To illusrate, the form of Bisakol (called Waray Sorsogon) spoken in:Barcelona, Gubat, Irosin, Sta. Magdalena, Matnog, Bulan and Bulusan slightly differs from the form (called Masbate Sorsogon) spoken in the city of Sorsogon and the municipalities of Juban and Casiguran. North of Sorsogon City, Castilla, Pilar, Magallanes, and Bacon (merged with Sorsogon city; see History), a form of Bikol is spoken. Also a different form of Bikol called Miraya similar to that of Daraga, Albay, is spoken in Donsol and some parts of Pilar. The former municipalities mentioned use words and intonations from Visayan languages such as Waray-Waray, Cebuano and Ilonggo, and Bisakol is considered a Warayan language like Waray-Waray of Samar and Leyte. English is also understood by most educated people. It is used in all government documents, schools, and in business. This language has also become increasingly important as businesses such as call centers and medical transcription require prospective applicants to be proficient in it.

Sorsogon Festivals
Many of the residents of Sorsogon belong to the Bisakol ethnolinguistic group. Many of the inhabitants of this province are Roman Catholics. Thus, Sorsogon festivals are mostly religious celebrations the whole year through. At the midst of their various festivals are myriads of different shows, concerts, carnivals, processions, street dancing and other types of celebrations. Every barangay in the province has its own fiesta.

Kasanggayahan Festival

One of the biggest Sorsogon festivals is Kasanggayahan Festival. Kasanggayahan means a life of prosperity. This is celebrated every October. This festival basically commemorates the foundation of Sorsogon as a province, so it is the entire province that actually celebrates this festival. Kasanggayahan Festival is actually listed as one of Philippines annual festivals. The whole celebration is characterized by series of religious, cultural, historical, economic and agro-industrial activities which are all geared toward showcasing the provinces abundant harvests. The highlights of the festival include Pantomina sa Tinampo where numerous dancers dressed in colorful native attire would come from all over the province to dance the Pantomina.

Pili Festival
Many of Sorsogon festivals are actually religious in nature. One of its festivals, however, Pili Festival is actually a celebration of the Pili tree which is indigenous to the province. This coincides with Sorsogon Citys annual fiestas in honor of St. Paul and St. Peter. The Pili festival and the fiesta of St. Paul and St. Peter are celebrated in the month of June. Participants dance down the streets wearing Piliinspired costumes. This street dancing event actually highlights the celebration.

Padaraw Festival

This fiesta estival is celebrated in Bulan, Sorsogon. It is a celebration of thanksgiving. It shows the peoples gratitude for Gods gifts and bounties. The whole festival is characterized by ethnic music and dancing.

Butanding Arribada Festival

Sorsogons festival wouldnt be complete if there is no festival celebrating the return of the Butanding in the area. The festival is held in time with the return of these wonderful huge sea creatures during the first week of March. It is meant to signal the opening of the Butanding season when the town of Donsol will open its doors to numerous tourists who will come for Butanding adventure. The season actually peaks during the summer or the months of March, April and May. Many tourists, local and foreign, are expected to arrive to see these gentle whale sharks. Swimming with these huge creatures is truly a worthwhile experience. The highlight of the festival is the long fluvial procession along the winding Donsol River where whale sharks are commonly seen converging during the summer.

Ginubat Festival

The word Ginubat is an old Bicol word which if translated means raided. Ginubat Festival is celebrated in the Gubat, Sorsogon. This old town of Sorsogon was one of the many places in Bicol which were frequently raided by Moro pirates who would come to loot and burn houses. Women were raped and people were taken as captives. Downplaying this dark history, the people of Gubat, Sorsogon chose to associate the word ginubat with their folk story of a time where their shores were frequently raided by giant fishes. Many people were alarmed by this phenomenon but nonetheless, they celebrated the bounties that came with the appearance of large fishes on their shores. Many people actually believe that this is how the town got its name. Nowadays, this festival is celebrated during the second week of June. It is also during this time that the town celebrates its fiesta. Accordingly, street dancing highlights the event.

Hin-ay Festival

Like many Sorsogon festivals, Hin-ay Festival is a religious fiesta that is celebrated in Irosin, Sorsogon. It is actually an event that honors the towns patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel. This features a huge food festival, agro-trade fair, contests and of course, a Mardi Gras. Sorsogon festivals are extravagant, colorful and flamboyant. You can dance the Pantomina during the Kasanggayahan Festival or you can join the procession during the Butanding Arribada Festival. Celebrating any of Sorsogon festivals will certainly be a memorable experience.

Interesting places
How to get to Sorsogon
Since the province of Sorsogon is quite accessible, you can be sure to find a lot of travel options when you want to get there. We'll go over the different travel methods available when getting into the province and its many destinations. Hopping around the province won't be much of a trouble since public transportation is readily available. Knowing your way around may yet be that important since the province is an entry point to other key locations in the Bicol region.

Getting to Sorsogon

This province is the southern tip of the island of Luzon, which is the biggest island in the Philippines. When taking a trip to the place, you would have to consider what means of transportation you take. You usually will have to choose to travel by land or plane if you're coming from major locations in Luzon like Manila and Angeles City. An added travel option if you're coming from the Philippine's south is by ferry. The most common, and the cheapest, way into the province is by bus from Manila. You'll travel from Manila to Legazpi first. The bus ride from Manila all the way to Legazpi City lasts for about ten hours. The trip from Legazpi City usually lasts from 45 minutes to an hour. The fare would normally be around P700 give or take. A little note you should consider is that bus fares will be jacked up during the peak season, which is usually around April to May and the holidays so you better assess your travel options. Another travel option is to travel by air from Manila. If you're coming from Angeles City you would have to travel from Angeles to Manila and then take the plane from Manila going to Legazpi. Airfares will vary slightly from one carrier to another. However, you should find it to cost around P1,500 on average. The flight from Manila to Legazpi will take around 45 minutes. Two popular carriers, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific fly to Legazpi two to three times a week. Flying from Cebu to Legazpi will be a bit more expensive with flights priced around P3,000. The flight from Cebu will last for about an hour. If you think the flight fare from Cebu is a tad too expensive then you might choose other travel options that are much cheaper but would require a longer travel time. Your sea voyage will start from Cebu heading off to Masbate, which will take around 12 hours of travel. From the island of Masbate you take a ferry to the town of Pilar, which is around two hours away. You can then head off to whatever destination you would like to choose. There is another travel option from Cebu that will take you to the other end of the province in the town of Matnog. You can travel from Cebu going to Samar, which takes about 14 hours. You then get on the ferry from Samar to Sorsogon, which is a two-hour boat ride. Whichever sea travel option you choose will definitely depend on where you want to go in Sorsogon. Those who want to see the sights on the southern end of the province may opt for the Cebu-Samar trip while those going for the northern parts of the province may opt for the Cebu-Masbate trip.

Roaming Around Sorsogon

Sorsogon also has the standard means of transportation in the Philippines. If you're traveling within a town, the common means is to hop on a tricycle. There are also jeepneys, customized passenger jeeps, that can take you from town to town. You can also get on a bus coursing through the national roads going in and out of the province. Taxis or air-conditioned vans are meant for long distance and a more convenient way to travel. These are your travel options getting in and around Sorsogon. One last tip is that whenever you're trying to catch a ride within the province, the first thing you should ask around for is a terminal.

1. Swim with the Whale Sharks

Experience a one of a kind adventure by swimming with the biggest fish in the world in the tranquil fishing village of Donsol. Interacting with the Butanding, also known as the gentle giant, is an exhilarating adventure that you can only experience in few places around the globe . The waters of Donsol are your best bet to spot these gigantic blue-grey spotted creatures. 2. Sunset Cruise and Firefly Watching After spending your day chasing the whale sharks, head to Donsol River before dusk and marvel at the beautiful sunset while cruising along the vast winding river fringed by mangroves, palm trees and other greenery. As the sky darkens, prepare to be awed by thousands of sparkling fireflies illuminating the trees and the surrounding sky. The boat trip costs around P1250 for a maximum of 6 and leaves the river bridge at 6pm.

3. Island Hopping in Matnog Hire a motorized banca from Matnog Ferry Terminal and explore the rare pink sandy beaches of Tikling and Calintaan Island. Tikling Island is a good spot for snorkeling while Subic Beach on Calintaan Island offers a charming nook for beach camping. Explore the huge underwater caves at Calintaan Island and spot exotic ocean dwellers while you dive into the crystal clear water. Drop by at Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary as well and while away your time feeding the teeming marine species or better yet rent a snorkel and mask and swim along with these creatures.

4. Visit Barcelona Church and Jubans Old Houses Seven kilometers south of Gubat, check out St. Joseph Church in the town of Barcelona, a 19thcentury structure with walls made from huge slabs of stone taken from the sea and cemented together using a unique mixture of beaten egg white, native coconut wine (tuba), and lime. It is considered the most well preserved church in the province with its original walls and bell tower still relatively intact. You can also climb its belfry for a great view over the ocean. On your way to the Matnog or Bulan, pay a quick visit to the old Spanish houses (Bahay na Bato) lining the main street in the town of Juban. While the ground floor of some old houses have already been converted into commercial establishments, visitors can still find original antique furniture inside as well as privatel historic collections. They still have the original capiz sliding windows and the carved wooden balustrade below the windowsill.

5. Dip in the Hot and Cold Springs of Irosin The idyllic town of Irosin abounds with natural spring water and prides itself as the wellness capital of the province. Head to Mateo Hot and Cold Springs at San Benon or at Mapaso Spring and soothe your weary body with the curative and relaxing effect of the volcanic spring water. Alternatively cool down at Masacrot Spring, a man-made pool with natural spring water at the nearby town of Bulusan.

6. Dive the famous Manta Bowl Dubbed as the Manta Ray Capital of the Philippines, the Manta Bowl found in the middle of the ocean between Donsol and Ticao Island is a haven for divers, marine biologists and underwater photographers. Aside from Manta Rays, the largest and most harmless rays in the world, many rare species of marine life are found at the dive site of San Miguel and Tical Island. March to May are the peak months for diving and although it is geographically part of the province of Masbate, it is logistically easier to dive from Donsol.

7. Explore the Beaches of Bacon District Just half an hour north of Sorsogon City, the town of Bacon offers a quick beach escape and some interesting spots to explore. The most unique of these is Paguriran Island located in Barangay Buenavista, a seawater lagoon surrounded by jagged rocks much like the rim of a volcano. Libanon Beach in Barangay San Juan has fine black sand and crashing waves hammering the craggy seaside hill. Pagol Beach is a small pocket of sandy beach covered with swept corals while Tolong Gapo Beach offers a long stretch of beach with beachside cottages.

8. Trek Mt. Bulusan Climb up the densely forested Mt. Bulusan, one of the three active volcanoes in the Bicol Region and take pleasure in the natural beauty of the scenery and the sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean and the West Philippines Sea at the summit. Experience mountaineers can complete the hike in a day while others who prefer a leisurely pace can camp at the crater summit. Fernandos Hotel organizes climbing tours but independent travellers can look for guides and up-to-date information from the Sorsogon Tourism Council or ask the barangay captain in San Roque for assistance. A quick dip in the cool water of Palogtoc Falls is a good way to end the day after a successful conquest. 9. Indulge in Seafood and Local Delicacies The province of Sorsogon is blessed with abundant reserves of aquatic resources and is the major supplier of seafood all over the mainland. A visit here is not complete without trying some of the local favorites like the Ginataang Alimasag (crabs with cocomilk), Sinabawang Tahong (mussel soup), orEnsaladang Lato ( seaweed salad). Now, however tempting it may be, avoid trying the local favorite Kinunot. Kinunot dishes are made from shark or sting/manta ray meat simmered in coconut milk. The only dish that I craved when I was a kid is now listed as an endangered species. Other Sorsogon Delicacies, however, like Kuyog,Hinagam, Binut-ong and Kinagang are worth adding on your exotic food safari experience. 10. Support Eco-Tourism Adventures

Explore Bulusan Volcano National Park, a protected rainforest and wildlife sanctuary. The nature park offers a number of waterfalls, hot springs, caves and decent walking path around Bulusan Lake. Its a beautiful and relaxing spot for picnic, kayaking and fishing. Drive or trek up to the vast forest reserve of PNOC- Eco-Park situated between the borders of Albay and Sorsogon. It offers a variety of exciting activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The scenic Botong Twin Falls, the boiling lake at Mt. Inang Maharang and an encounter with a mountain ape, a deer or wild boar are some of the highlights of your visit here. Caves, hot springs and fresh water lakes as well as numerous winding trails can also be explored. Contact Sorsogon Provincial Tourism Council (SPTC) to arrange a visit to the park. For a further dose of rustic countryside scenery and off the beaten path adventures, head to Pilarfor diving at the Punumbagan Marine Sanctuary along Burias Pass, do a fishpond and bird watching adventure at Pilar Estuary and Malbog River or avail of Putiao River Ride with San Jose Cave Exploration and Egret Sanctuary Experience. Arrange your visit with Pilar Visitors Center and Putiao Visitor Center. For excellent marine eco-tourism in Sorsogon, check out Prieto Diazs Mangrove Forest andMarilag Marine Seagrass Bed Reserves as well as its beaches, falls and caves.

Astillero of Donsol
Astillero in Spanish means shipyard. Just across the wharf of Donsol in Barangay Dancalan, you will find the biggest shipyard in this part of Luzon. This is actually a fairly old shipyard. It is believed to have been built during the Spanish period and in fact, it was the biggest shipyard in the country during that period. It was also a metal production site. Archaeologists unearthed numerous artifacts from the site which proved the folk story that a metal factory once stood there.

Irosins Hilltop Church

One of the most picturesque Sorsogon sightseeing destinations is the old Catholic Church that you will find atop a hill in Irosin. The hill is smacked right at the center of the town. You need to climb 100step concrete steps to reach the top. Once at the top, you will enjoy the panoramic view of Irosin as well as the countryside. There are still a lot of places that you can visit in Sorsogon. Every place is memorably picturesque. You will surely have a great experience visiting the province. If you want a novel vacation, think Sorsogon sightseeing.

Sorsogon Beaches
Like the rest of the provinces of the Philippines, Sorsogon has its own shares of spectacular beaches that are worthy of visit. Because the province is surrounded by water, you will find numerous coastal beaches with fine white sands where you can curl your toe fingers. If you have never been seen pink sands, you should try some of the Sorsogon beaches. Many of these beaches also offer exciting activities for thrill seekers. You can try scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and jet skiing. Some of the most beautiful beaches are discussed below.

Rizal Beach

This is one of the most popular Sorsogon beaches. It is located in Gubat which is about 25 minutes away from Sorsogon City. This beach boasts of a long stretch of white sand and it is famous among tourists, local and foreign, as a great picnic destination. You can now find two resorts offering accommodations along Rizal Beach. Both resorts offer air-conditioned rooms, cottages, function halls, restaurants and souvenir shops.

Tolong-Gapo Beach

Tolong-Gapo means three stones. Unlike most Sorsogon beaches, the name of this beach tells of a local legend about the three stones that can be found off its shores. The story has it that a lightning struck a boy, a cat and a carabao and turned them into three rocks that are now seen off the white sand beaches of Tolong Gapo. Needless to say, there is a belief that you should avoid playing with a cat during thunderstorms or you run the risk of being hit by a lightning. You will then be turned into stone. The long stretch of white-sand beaches is lined with cottages that are owned by various individuals. You will also find small restaurants and stores all over the beach. This beach is about 15 minutes away from Sorsogon City.

Paguriran Island

Sorsogon beaches also include beautiful islands that you can reach by motorized boats. If you want to visit an island in Sorsogon, you should start with the Paguriran Island. It will take you about 40 minutes boat ride from the center of Bacon District and 20 minutes boat ride from Barangay Buenavista to reach the place. The whole island is worth the trip. It is completely picturesque. You will find a lagoon with craggy rocks around it at the center of the island. This used to be the home of giant sea turtles. There are plans underway, however, to restore this sanctuary.

Libanon Beach

This beach is located in San Juan, Bacon. Unlike other Sorsogon beaches, Libanon offers black fine sand. A part of the beach is covered by huge black rocks. These rocks are believed to have come from Mt. Mayon.

Sabang Beach

This is one of few Sorsogon beaches that are operated by the government. This white sand beach resort is located near the town of Bulan, Sorsogon. It offers various kinds of cottages with rooms, conference rooms and a small relaxing cafeteria.

Dancalan Beach
If you want to do some snorkeling, you should definitely visit Dancalan Beach. This is one of Sorsogon beaches that boats of coral reefs teeming with life. It is run by a local community cooperative. The beach has concrete cottages, canteen and a small store. If you dont feel comfortable staying in a cottage, you can get an air-conditioned room from the hotel near the beach.

Olango Beach

Located past the town of Sta. Magdalena, you will find one of the best Sorsogon beaches. Olango is a great place to go to if you want to do some snorkeling. It has shallow waters and beautiful coral gardens. The place is tranquil and completely relaxing. The only sounds you will hear are the breaking waves and the blowing sea breeze. It is a perfect place to escape to if you need peace and quiet. There are many Sorsogon beaches that you can go to if you are planning to visit Sorsogon. They are all untouched and they all have something to offer.

Sorsogon Tourist Information

The province of Sorsogon, through its municipalities and capital city, is one of the leading examples in Region V of a land that has been able to make giant strides economically but at the same time maintaining its sense of culture and identity.

Geography

Sorsogon province is situated in the Bicol Region, with Albay province at its northern tip, and gazes at Samar on the southeast. At the southwest is the island of Ticao. From the east lies the Pacific Ocean, and at its south side the San Bernadino Strait. It occupies an area approximately 2,100 sq. km, or some 1,200 sq. miles. The landscape presents interesting contrasts. In a lot of places the land is rugged, with hills and valleys. Large mountains, like the famed Mount Bulusan (5,000 ft high), can be found in throughout,

especially the northeast and west areas. This is contrasted by the fact that with the exception of Albay at its northern tip, the province is encompassed by water.

Facts & Figures

Location: Region V, also known as the Bicol Region Cities: 1 (Sorsogon City, the capital) Population: approx. 700,000 Representation in Congress: 2 Municipalities: 14

The Economy

Few places have contributed to the economic resurgence of Bicol Region like Sorsogon. Much of the strength of the province stems from the economic strength of its capital, Sorsogon City. As a special economic zone, the city now sports all the aspect of modern, first class city life; banks, schools, restaurants, theaters, malls proliferate. Outside of the capital, the province is heavily dependent on agriculture and fishery, and its geographical placement has made these endeavors profitable to a large extent. Rice, copra, bananas, santol, bamboo are produced extensively.

The People

The vast majority of the province stem from the Bisakol and Bicolano groups. Like most Filipinos, they are very outgoing and their generosity towards their kin and even strangers is well known. The influence of the Spaniards can be readily seen in the fact that most of the inhabitants are Roman Catholics, and this is reflected by the numerous festivities dedicated to various saints and patrons. However there are also several minorities, including the Muslims. In Sitio Bolangan is a well known mosque, frequented by devotees. There are also some Chinese and Hindus, mostly in the capital where they are engaged in various businesses.

Language

Virtually everyone in the province can comprehend and speak Tagalog, and also Bioclano, but it is interesting to note that there exists a wide array of local dialects, which differ somewhat from district to district. This does not just refer to the distinctions between the Biocalno and Bisakol language; the Bisakol (also termed Waray) used in places like Satan Magdalena, Bulusan and Gubat are not the same as those spoken in Magallanes, Sorsogon City and Juban. Some also speak Cebuano and of course English is utilized in schools, and people, particularly in the capital, use it very well.

Educational Facilities

A major reason for the success of Sorsogon is the large number of schools and universities in its midst. These include the Bicol Merchant Marine College, Lewis College, STI College, AMA Computer Learning Center, Sorsogon State College, Our Lady of Penfrancia Sanctuary and many others. Most of these are located in the capital city.

Infrastructure & Transport

Most of those who will travel to Sorsogon from the National Capital Region do so via motor vehicles, and the route usually taken is that of the Maharlika Highway. However, the construction of the Sorsogon City Domestic Airport is expected to be complete before the end of 2008 and will provide another way. This facility, together with the capitals well maintained communication infrastructure (including Internet access) is expected to further boost the status of the province.

Restaurants in Sorsogon
Coming to Sorsogon city is not a complete and fulfilling trip if you dont stop by at some of the Sorsogon restaurants that are there to give you a fine dining experience that would be nice to cherish and remember. There are actually many to mention, but, for starters, here are seven (7) of the most commonly known Sorsogon restaurants that you should never forget to include in your itinerary.

Acacia Grill

Located at VL Peralta Street in Sorsogon Town, where inexpensive and Chinese dishes are served to please your tastebuds, is one of the Sorsogon restaurants you shouldnt miss. This is known to many as the Acacia Grill. The ambience is totally relaxing and the restaurant is usually conveniently open to

serve you twelve hours daily. Many diners find that the meals are not that pricey and the foods are really deliciously-cooked to satisfy you.

Balkon Bar and Restaurant

Another of the Sorsogon restaurants is Balkon. If you choose to come to this place, dont forget to try one of their special spicy dishes which is Kinunot (stingray or pagi). This is cooked in coconut, chili, milk and sigarilyas. Coming to this restaurant is like coming home to good food and friendly people who ready to serve you. The foods are wonderfully affordable, and you can already have more to munch on when you bring a budget of around P500 to P1,000.

Casa Dominga

In Balogo, Sorsogon city is another of the Sorsogon restaurants that can give you a delightful gastronomic experience. Try their creamy dishes such as Bicol Paella and Shrimps in Aligue (Aligue is actually Crab Fat). A budget of P500 is perfect for the budget-wise but hungry traveler since most of their meals are aptly priced at around P160 per dish.

Dahon Saging Restaurant

Dahon Saging restaurant is named as such since their dishes are mainly served and adorned with dahon ng saging or banana leaves. The meals are basically local favorites. Bring P500 with you, and you could enjoy its scrumptious Filipino cuisine.

Mango Grill

You can find most of the Sorsogon restaurants in the busy streets of the city. That goes for Mango Grill and the other Sorsogon restaurants (which serve fastfood or fine dining options). Most visitors of the city like hopping to this place because of the great food and the free videoke service it offers where one can sing to their hearts content. Their food choices are also affordable.

Kalundan Seafood Restaurant

Kalundan Seafood Restaurant offers you a rich taste of the local foods. It is famous for its delectable seafood dishes and fine dining accommodations. Located in Bitan-o in the city, this restaurant cooks your choice of meals in a jiffy. And you can already enjoy a hot dish of your choice without having to wait for hours.

Waway Restaurant

Just like the other Sorsogon restaurants in the vicinity, Waway Restaurant boasts of interestinglyprepared dishes. One of its most-loved dishes is the Pinangat (or, more commonly known to local residents as Laing). This dish is a rich blend of gabi leaves, meat, chili and coconut milk. It is neatly wrapped in gabi leaves, and tied with coconut leaf for a native appeal that truly looks delicious. Spicy foods, the freshest seafoods, creamy sauces, intricate and natively-designed dishes are the things that you would be pleased to try when you go to these Sorsogon restaurants. These are just some of the pride of the city that you would probably love to come back to when there is a chance for you to do so again. Just like the others who have gone to these places, you would probably agree that dining in Sorsogon is really an experience to remember!

Sorsogon Hotels and Resorts

Situated within Bicol Region in the Philippines, the province of Sorsogon is a tremendously fine place where people can find beautiful hotels and resorts, which play a major role in the booming tourism industry within the area. Within these exciting places, people can expect nothing but the finest hotel services, accommodations, as well as facilities available. For years, they have provided tourists, guests, and visitors a decent, pleasant, and pleasurable stay within the region as they explore its wonderful and fascinating surroundings as well as other exciting places of interest.

Munting Paraiso Beach Resort

Known for its extremely fine and beautiful surroundings, Munting Paraiso Beach Resort is a topnotch hospitality service provider located at Barangay J. Gerona within the municipality of Bulan in the province of Sorsogon. The place owns simple yet highly convenient and elegant facilities, which are guaranteed to provide its guests with the most relaxing, satisfying, and enjoyable stay available. Basic hotel amenities include uninterrupted power and water supply, exotic bathrooms, and a spacious

function hall that can accommodate large gatherings as well as other special occasions. When staying at this place, people can choose from different exciting room types including an Oval House, a Rizal House, and an Apartment House.

Fernandos Hotel

Definitely one of the finest places to stay in the province of Sorsogon, Fernandos Hotel offers worldclass facilities, convenient services, as well as super affordable rates for everyone. Found along N. Pareja Street within Barangay Bitan-o in Sorsogon City, this place takes pride in the wonderful and inexpensive tour packages that it offers including Bulusan Volcano Trekking, Whale Shark Interaction Tour, and Land Based Eco-Tour. More importantly, this top-rating hotel provides high quality room accommodations including Standard Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and Mabuhay Rooms, all available within the price range of 1,100 pesos to 3,200 pesos. Each of these wonderful units is equipped with topnotch hotel amenities like a telephone line, a refrigerator, and a cable television set.

Villa Kasanggayahan Pensione

An off-the-main-road hotel located near the Plaza of Sorsogon City, Villa Kasanggayahan Pensione offers highly affordable room rates for all its valued guests and visitors. Despite the inexpensive prices, the place still offers topnotch services, amenities, and accommodations for truly satisfying stays. This fine hotel has a quiet and very relaxing atmosphere, which matches the cool green paint of the building from the outside. It has air-conditioned rooms, with comfortable beds and other important amenities including television sets as well as hot and cold shower fixtures.

Rizal Beach Resort

Found at Rizal within the municipality of Gubat in the province of Sorsogon, Rizal Beach Resort is an excellent place to stay where people can find comfort, solace, and relaxation while cruising past the streets of the area. This nice hotel offers wonderful services including car rentals, airport transfers, as well as catering, all of which are guaranteed to provide its valued guests and visitors modern convenience. Right inside the place, people can find topnotch amenities like beach cottages, recreational facilities, and a souvenir shop. Add to that, this fine hotel resort also offers exclusive tours to different tourist attractions in the area.

Veramaris Resort

Situated along Rizal Beach within the municipality of Gubat in the province of Sorsogon, Veramaris Resort is another outstanding hotel that offers modern convenience, comfort, and pleasure to all its valued customers and guests. Inside this simple yet elegant hotel facility, people can find nice rooms from only 1,090 pesos to 1,750 pesos, all of which have in-room amenities like cable television sets and air-conditioning units.

Mercedes Country Lodge

One of the most accessible hotels in Sorsogon City, people can easily find Mercedes Country Lodge along Rizal and V. L. Peralta Streets within Barangay Talisay. Within the nice premises of this topnotch hotel, they can experience excellent accommodations through wonderful facilities such as Vilmas Cybernet Kiosk, Green Lamp Bar, and Vics Videoke Place. In addition, they can also check out special places like Rice Paddy restaurant and have fun at Shepherds Hut Billiards and Caf. Besides the outstanding hotel facilities, the place also offers inexpensive rooms such as Budget Rooms, Standard Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and Superior Rooms, all of which are available from as low as 400 pesos to 800 pesos.