The Philippines is known for its beautiful beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and hospitable people. One of the most visited regions in the country is Bicol, located in the southern part of Luzon. This region is famous for its majestic Mayon Volcano, spicy food, and exciting adventures. If you’re planning a trip from Manila to Albay, here are some popular tourist destinations, transportation options, and hotel accommodation recommendations that you might find useful.
Tourist Destinations
- Mayon Volcano – The most famous tourist destination in Bicol is Mayon Volcano, known for its perfect cone shape. It’s an active volcano that last erupted in 2018, so it’s always best to check the weather and local advisories before planning a visit.
- Cagsawa Ruins – The Cagsawa Ruins is a historical site that showcases the remains of a church that was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 1800s. It’s a great spot for photo opportunities and a chance to learn more about the history of the area.
- Donsol – Donsol is a popular destination for tourists who want to swim with whale sharks, also known as Butanding. These gentle giants are usually present from November to June, but it’s always best to check with local tour operators for the best time to visit.
- Legazpi Boulevard – Legazpi Boulevard is a scenic strip that offers a stunning view of Mayon Volcano. It’s a great place to relax, take a walk, or enjoy some local food and drinks.
Transportation Options
There are several transportation options available when traveling from Manila to Albay. The fastest way to get there is by plane, while the cheapest option is by bus.
Airfare – Several airlines offer flights from Manila to Legazpi, the capital city of Albay. The travel time is around an hour, and the airfare ranges from PHP 1,500 to PHP 6,000 (USD 30 to USD 120) depending on the airline and season.
Bus fare – There are several bus companies that offer trips from Manila to Albay. The travel time is around 10 to 12 hours, and the fare ranges from PHP 700 to PHP 1,200 (USD 14 to USD 24) depending on the bus company and type of bus.
Bus Routes
If you choose to take the bus, here are some of the most popular bus routes:
- Manila to Legazpi – This is the most common route when traveling from Manila to Albay. Several bus companies offer daily trips, and the travel time is around 10 to 12 hours.
- Manila to Sorsogon – If you’re planning to visit Donsol, taking the Manila to Sorsogon route is a great option. From Sorsogon, you can take a van or tricycle to Donsol, which is around 30 minutes away.
Hotel Accommodation Recommendations
There are several hotels and resorts available in Albay, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. Here are some recommendations based on budget and location:
- Budget-friendly – For budget-friendly options, you can check out Balay de la Rama Bed and Breakfast, Mayon Backpackers Hostel, or La Trinidad Pension House. These accommodations offer basic amenities at affordable prices.
- Mid-range – For mid-range options, you can check out Hotel Venezia, The Oriental Legazpi, or Hotel St. Ellis. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms and amenities at reasonable prices.
- Luxury – For luxury options, you can check out Misibis Bay Resort, The Oriental Hotel Legazpi
