Mango Tours Bailout: Fly to the Philippines for FREE!

PROMO MECHANICS:

• A raffle ticket is issued to anyone who purchases a ticket from Mango Tours with routing from anywhere in the US to the Philippines between April 1, 2009 and June 30, 2009.
• The raffle ticket is automatically entered in the raffle draw which will be held on July 4, 2009.
• Avail of additional land travel arrangements through Mango Tours and get a second raffle entry.
• Winner of the raffle will receive a free round trip ticket from either SFO or LAX to MNL.
• Promo is valid from April 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009 only!

Palawan: the last frontier

So you've toured Manila and strolled along the shores of Boracay. What's next?, you wonder. When do I get to see the real, unspoiled paradise of the Philippines?

When does the real adventure start?

Palawan's otherworldly paradise

Palawan province, a long stretch of land located in the Southern Tagalog region, has always been known for having some of the country's best luxury beach resorts and diving spots. For backpack traveling enthusiasts, it's a haven of secret island beaches, various land travel adventures, wildlife sanctuaries and mesmerizing geographical wonders.

click each of the maps to zoom in

Tubbataha Reefs
Renowned as one of the world's 7 wonders, the Tubbataha Reefs National Marine Park is one of the most well-managed offshore marine protected areas in the country, according to WWF Philippines, one of the organizations working towards the protection of this beautiful underwater sanctuary. It is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

the colorful and diverse marine life in Tubbataha Reefs by scubaschnauzer

Its diverse aquatic marine life and huge coral reefs have made this spot a must-see for diving professionals and enthusiasts around the world.


Busuanga
It was only recently that airlines started flying directly to Busuanga, the largest island in the Calamian Group. Its mountains and fields of lush green, roads on their way to becoming fully-paved, cattle ranches and groups of divers and backpackers who come to visit are positive signals of a steady and sustainable development.

A glimpse of the still underdeveloped charm of Busuanga

From the airport, Busuanga becomes a jump-off point to different parts of the Calamian Group. Some tourists head straight to their private sojourn in a luxury island resort, some head to Culion Island and Coron, and some head to smaller, privatized islands that only local boatmen know about. Most scuba diving enthusiasts head to Coron, where dive resorts cater to their diving needs as well as arrange diving tours.


El Nido
This group of limestone islands beholds a lot of mysteries as to its history because of the fossils and burial sites found in the caves, which date back as far as 2680 BC. El Nido has a total of 45 islands and islets; a perfect opportunity for visitors to explore and take on various kinds of adventures, discover new things and marvel at its scenic landscapes.

El Nido Lagen pool by Cy Villegas

Visitors can choose to go scuba diving, snorkeling, go island hopping, trekking, sightseeing and of course, lounge around on ElNido's pristine white sand beaches.


Puerto Princesa
Nowadays, it is rare that you see pristine white beaches just a short distance from a city. But in the environmentally-conscious province, Puerto Princesa City is definitely an exception. Tiny islands with powdery-white sand dot Honda Bay, a popular destination among those who visit the city. The crystal clear and turquoise water allows you to see the very diverse species of tropical fish swimming around your own feet.

entrance to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River by Reizel David

The Underground River, which is set in the middle of a tropical rainforest, is surrounded by high mountain peaks. The area’s abundant wildlife will surely add to your sense of adventure.

Governance & Ecotourism
A lot of Palawan's beauty and sustainable development can be traced back to its provincial and local governments, who have made environmental protectionism a high priority. Because of their efforts in maintaining the beauty of the island, National Geographic Traveler has recognized Palawan for being the best island destination in Southeast Asia in 2007. Conde Nast Traveler magazine also voted Palawan's beaches and islets for being the best in Asia.

Getting There
Local airlines fly direct to Busuanga, Puerto Princesa and El Nido daily. Or better yet, have us at Mango Tours arrange a tour package to Palawan for you (inclusive of round trip airfare) at the location and resort of your choice! Call our 24/7 US toll free number 1-866-2-MANILA today!

Our Recommended Accommodations

• Microtel Palawan
• Dos Palmas Resort
• Club Paradise
• Miniloc IslandResort
• El Nido Lagen Resort
  

Related links:
"Palawan govt issues 25-year mining halt" on ABS-CBN News
"Palawan government thrusts for nature preservation"
Tubbataha Reefs Official Site

Mango Tours is now on Twitter

We at Mango Tours are always finding new ways for you to be the first to receive updates on our fare and travel promos. Now you can learn more about us through Twitter--follow us through your mobile phone or your own Twitter page!

You'll be sure to get the scoop on the latest travel news and promos real-time!

Go on a road trip with Mango Tours!

Mango Tours now has a fleet of vans and cars for you to rent for your road trips and drives around the Metro!

North & South Luzon
Quick Getaway Packages

Mango Tours offers tours in locations just a few hours' drive away from Metro Manila. Below is a list of our available packages:

1. Pampanga
This cultural tour package is inclusive of hotel pick-up, a tour of Pampanga, lunch at Abe's Farm and a 1-hour massage service at Nurture Spa.

Abe's Farm pond by Allan Tee

2. Manila (Lifestyle tour)
Pamper yourself with our Manila lifestyle tour--inclusive of hotel pick-up, bargain shopping at Greenhills and Market! Market! and a spa treatment at Fitness First.

bargain shopping at Greenhills by Marika Baguisi

3. Manila (Historical tour)
Once the capital enclosed within thick walls and moats, Intramuros now serves as a haven of historical spots and museums for those who want to get a glimpse of what the Philippines was like under the Spanish colonial era, which lasted more than 300 years. Our Manila Historical tour package is inclusive of hotel pick-up, set lunch and a tour of Manila's historical spots.

the walled city that is Intramuros. Photo by Warren Chua

4. Tagaytay
Just a couple of hours away from the Metro is Tagaytay City, a popular summer destination among vacationers mainly because its cool climate. Our Tagaytay escapade tour package is inclusive of hotel pick-up, a tour of the city and Ilog Maria Bee Farm and lunch and spa treatment at Sonya's Garden.

Sonya's Garden Bed & Breakfast by Thom Watson

5. Villa Escudero
Once a coconut plantation, Villa Escudero was opened to the general public in the 1980s and has become a popular spot in South Luzon because of its waterfall restaurant and its laid-back and rural ambience. Our Villa Escudero tour package is inclusive of hotel pick-up, sightseeing en route to Villa Escudero, lunch at the waterfalls and a museum tour.

Villa Escudero cottage accommodations by Oliver Bautista

For more inquiries about package rates and tour details, call US toll-free 1-866-2-MANILA now!

Mango Tours page on Facebook

Mango Tours now has a Facebook fan page--visit us and be part of the growing crowd that receives daily updates on Mango Tours' fare and travel promos and other news through their own Facebook news feed.

Sharing news about our promos to your personal network is now made easier through our wall posts that you can either send to your friends through private message, or post on your own wall for all your friends to see!

Click here! Visit us on Facebook and BE A FAN!

Fly in Style with Cathay + 3-night stay in luxury hotel

Fly in style with Cathay Pacific and book a 3-night stay at a luxury hotel in Manila, all for $949 per person!

Partner hotels include Diamond Hotel, The Peninsula Manila, Dusit Thani Manila Hotel and Discovery Suites.

• Promo includes round trip airfare (SFO/MNL/SFO via Cathay Pacific), a 3-night stay at the hotel of your choice with breakfast and one-way airport transfer.
• Rates are per person and applicable for double occupancy.
• Weekend surcharge applies.
• Fare is good for a 3-month stay in the Philippines and is inclusive of tax and fuel surcharge.

Valid until May 23, 2009 only! Call us now at 24/7 US toll free 1-866-2-MANILA to book a flight!

COMING SOON: 2009 Philippine Tour Packages

Watch out for the Mango Tours' Philippine Tour Packages Brochure for 2009 --coming out soon on print and on the Web. To get a sneak peek at what's inside, here's a short description of what Mango Tours has in store for you this year:

More locations to choose from
The 2009 brochure offers new tour packages in beautiful and exciting locations, activities to cater to your every whim--whether it be cultural, adventurous or just plain relaxing, and of course, accommodations in the best hotels and resorts in the country.

Promoting ecotourism in the Philippines
New locations feature guest activities that focus on ecotourism, a form of tourism that advocates the preservation of culture, community participation and protection of natural resources.

Basically it's enjoying a visit to a beautiful tourist spot responsibly--by maintaining the very things that make it beautiful in the first place. This is, of course, part of an effort to help save our environment in our own little ways!

Road trips around Luzon
With the new Mango Tours van available for use, guests can avail of Road Trip Packages to various locations around Luzon, with stopovers at charming cafes and restaurants that offer sumptuous dining options, cultural and heritage tours as well as lifestyle activities like shopping and spa treatments.

Be sure to check back at the Mango Tours website for the release of our new Tour Packages!

Philippine tourism strong amidst economic slowdown

above: a plane steering clear of the gloom

A stimulus package was unveiled just recently to help shelter Philippine tourism against the global economic slump. This stimulus package, according to Inquirer.net, is worth $999 and is supported by Philippine Airlines along with a consortium of local travel agencies, of which Mango Tours is proud to be part of.

Basically, the tour package is inclusive of the following:

• Roundtrip international airfare to Manila from either San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas via Philippine Airlines
• A 2-night stay in any of the selected deluxe hotels
• Daily American breakfast, and
• One way airport transfer

Of course, aside from the basic Metro Manila tour package, Mango Tours can also offer affordable tours in different parts of the country such as Boracay, Palawan, Bohol, Cebu and Bicol.

Mango Tours always gives its customers opportunities to avail of affordable airfare and tour packages. Just call our 24/7 US toll free number at 1-866-2-MANILA to inquire about any promos that we might have!

For more, read "Sec. Durano Unveils Tourism Stimulus Package of $ 999" on Inquirer.net

Experience the world with Mango Tours!

above: give our Vacation Department a call now for inquiries on
all things travel and they'd be more than happy to help you out!

Korean Air $580 airfare, all taxes included!

For bookings, questions and inquiries, call our US toll free number at 1-866-2-MANILA and our agents will be glad to help you out. You can also book your flights through our online booking engine at mangotours.com.

Benefits of online booking

Twice a month Mango Tours sponsors the travel segment on The Filipino Channel's (TFC) hit news show Balitang America anchored by Gel Santos-Relos. In this segment we highlighted the benefits and ease of use of online booking for your travel and hotel needs.

Video: Tips for buying airfare tickets online

It may seem customary for most to buy airfare and hotel reservations online, but some still prefer dealing with a live agent to handle their travel needs, which is why to this day our branch operations remain a strong aspect of our mission.

Don't let this fool you! Our online reservations system can give you the exact same fare you will receive at our branches or by calling our toll free number, if you're lucky you may even get a lower fare when purchasing online!

One Discovery A Day

We are proud to introduce the One Discovery A Day package--an opportunity for you to experience Discovery Suites' first-class luxury that is close to home.

Raintree Misibis Bay, Albay
Escape to the newly-opened Raintree Misibis Bay, an all-villa resort that offers its guests a magnificent view of the ocean, as well as water recreational facilities. Located just a few minutes away from Legazpi City, guests can easily explore the many wonders and adventures that the Bicol Region offers. Their private pink coral beach and the rich biodiversity in the area definitely make this resort the perfect escape to paradise.

Discovery Misibis, Albay

Discovery Suites, Ortigas
Located in the center of the Ortigas central business district, Discovery Suites easily gives off the atmosphere of a luxury hotel because of its modern architecture and its strategic proximity to shopping centers and businesses. Guests have one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom suites to choose from, all of which include a kitchen, entertainment, living and dining area. It is no wonder that this hotel has become a popular choice of both international and local guests alike for being a home away from home.

Discovery Suites, Ortigas

Discovery Country Suites, Tagaytay
A world-class bed-and-breakfast nestled in the Philippines' alternative summer capital, Discovery Country Suites' spacious and uniquely designed suites offer guests a spectacular view of Taal lake and volcano. Guests can avail of rejuvenating spa treatments in the comfort of their own suites. Its themed rooms and its location on the Tagaytay ridge will give you the feeling that you are the only ones in the entire place. Very ideal for romantic getaways.

Country Suites, Tagaytay

One Discovery A Day Packages
Call us at Mango Tours (1-866-2-MANILA) now and avail of our One Discovery A Day Package today to experience a luxurious getaway in your very own home away from home:

PACKAGE 1
3 nights in Discovery Suites, Manila
1 night in Country Suites, Tagaytay
1 night in Hotel Venezia, Legazpi City (highlighting the Mayon Volcano tour, Legaspi City Tour and whale shark watching in Donsol. Optional wake boarding at Camsur)

PACKAGE 2
(valid from May 1, 2009)
3 nights in Discovery Suites, Manila
1 night in Country Suites, Tagaytay
1 night in Hotel Venezia, Legazpi City
2 nights in Raintree Misibis Bay, Albay

Bicol, represent!

Attention all Bicolanos!

There has been some buzz about the anticipated boost in Bicol Region's tourism industry in the years to come. One of the reasons for this is the opening of the newly constructed luxury resort Raintree Misibis Bay just last December. Adding to this is the opening of the Embarcadero commercial and information technology complex at the Legazpi City port, which should also boost the region's economy as a whole.

The Bicol Region holds many interesting wonders that have yet to be discovered and written about. Gearing up to boost eco tourism with its world-class outdoor sports facilities, wildlife sanctuaries, unusual geogrpahical formations and pristine white sand beaches, this region holds many interesting wonders that can easily rival its regional counterparts.

above: map of the Bicol Region

Caramoan Peninsula (Camarines Sur)
Already coined as the Philippines' Secret Paradise, Caramoan attracted a lot of attention as a must-see destination just the past year, especially among the younger, more adventurous crowds. Its pristine white sand, lagoons and huge limestone rock formations give its visitors the impression that they have been cast away in an unspoiled paradise.

The increase in Caramoan’s volume of visitors in the recent years has led to the opening of more resorts and hostels, which cater to different demographics from backpackers, large groups and those looking for a luxurious and relaxing time by the ocean. Believed to be the Philippines’ next Boracay, it’s no surprise to anyone who’s been here that the beauty of this secret paradise won’t be kept secret for long.

Caramoan Peninsula by Raffy Yllana

CamSur Watersports Complex (Camarines Sur)
Catering to lovers of outdoor sports, this world-class watersports complex is located in the humble city of Pili, just 20 minutes from Naga City. The resort, which houses a 6-point cable system ideal for professional wakeboarders and waterskiiers, is well-known among watersports enthusiasts from around the world. International wakeboarding competitions are held here every year around July.

wakeboarding in the Philippines by Mervin L. Manalo

CamSur Watersports Complex through Jonathan de Guzman's candy colored Holga

Daet (Camarines Norte)
Bagasbas Beach in Daet has become popular among local surfers because of its relative proximity to Metro Manila. Just a few kilometers away from Daet, Bagasbas' beach break and sandy bottom makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. For more information about Bagasbas Beach's surf characteristics, click here.

above: surfing in Daet by Allen Andrade

Donsol (Albay)
This tourist-friendly destination an hour away from Legazpi City known for its whale shark watching tours, which is a must-do activity in the Bicol Region. Early morning trips can be booked with the Donsol Butanding Information Office. There are also tours of the Ogud River at night, where you can relax on a cruise and watch as fireflies flutter around.

Mayon Volcano (Albay)
Known for its perfect conical shape. Aside from the volcano being the perfect subject for sunset photography and sightseeing, it is also popular among mountaineers because of its challenging 1.5-day climb.



Where to Stay in Bicol
CamSur Watersports Complex offers a wide variety of accommodations at different price ranges. Villa del Rey, housed within the complex, offers villas, cabanas, containers, wood cabins, tiki huts and mansion suites to cater to every guest’s own liking and comfort.

Hotel Venezia, just a couple of minutes away from Legazpi airport, offers its guests a stunning view of Mayon Volcano. The laid-back ambience and superb facilities of this boutique hotel is surely

Raintree Misibis Bay, a luxurious all-villa tropical resort off the shores of Legazpi City, will wow you with its extraordinary private pink coral beach and rich natural resources.


Getting to Bicol
There are many ways to get to the Bicol region, depending on the level of comfort and adventure that you’re willing to take on. Local airlines fly in and out of Naga City and Legazpi City daily. Buses leave from different stations in Metro Manila. These land trip normally take around 8-10 hours to get to Naga City. Luckily, most buses are equipped with their own bathrooms and La-Z-Boy seats for your comfort.

Let us guide you through your exploration of the Bicol Region. Book a flight home through us at Mango Tours (1-866-2-MANILA) and ask us about our special offers at Raintree Misibis Bay and Hotel Venezia!

Pack it Right!

Every backpacker around the world would probably agree that packing light makes travel hassle-free. It helps you avoid extra baggage charges, lessens stress and makes traveling via public transportation so much easier.

having a hard time packing light? let One Bag help you out

The thing is, the science and art of packing light can be applied in any kind of travel, whether for pleasure or business simply because it just makes everything so convenient. Online travel packing guru One Bag explains in detail the process of putting more thought into:

1. What you pack
2. What to pack your things in, and
3. How to pack

One Bag also demonstrates how to pack light and save space in your luggage using their easy-to-follow diagram:

click to zoom in on photo or visit site

Packing light has never been this interesting and possible to do until now!

Experience Boracay

Every year during spring in the U.S. and summer in the Philippines, Mango Tours hosts Experience Boracay, a travel package to Manila and Boracay that caters to the younger generation. Aside from the beautiful beaches, perfect sunsets and 5-star accommodations, this trip helps promote the Philippines as a premier tourist destination to a new market, which until recently would rather take a trip to Hawaii or Mexico.

Since Experience Boracay is also promoted the younger and fun crowd, it also shows that the exciting nightlife on the island can be up to par with other similar party destinations around the world.

click image to view Experience Boracay itinerary

For most people who have gone on the Experience Boracay getaway tour, it was also their first time to visit the Philippines. And as Filipinos coming to the Philippines for the first time, it was a great way to reignite their pride for the motherland, reconnect with roots and of course, party like there's no tomorrow!

The Experience Boracay getaway tour has available roundtrip flights from San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York City to Manila, accommodations at our 5-star partner hotels, as well as city and island tours.

This year's Experience Boracay tour will be happening on April 15-25, 2009! Book now and call us at 1-866-2-MANILA* to experience paradise in the real summer party destination that is Boracay.

Please visit www.partyinmanila.com for more information on the trip and package prices.

*US toll free number

A different kind of Boracay

The paradise that is Boracay. Photograph by Gep Pascual

The words "summer" and "travel" almost always make people in the Philippines think of Boracay as their #1 destination. The island's 4Km stretch of powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters make it enticing to anybody who is looking to cool down from the summer heat, unwind or simply escape the bustle of city life.

Anybody who has been to the island during the summer knows that Boracay is all about the exciting nightlife by the beach--a fusion of fabulous music, colorful alcoholic concoctions and beautiful people. By the beach is also the best place to get a relaxing massage--masseuses roam around the island looking to stumble upon a random vacationer in need for some pampering under the shade of a coconut tree.

Massage, Boracay style by Jennifer Rombaoa

Aside from the usual partying, relaxation and roasting under the sun, there are a lot more things to do on the island that are as equally enticing--if only people heard about them more:

Experience the sunset like no other
The sunset on Boracay Island is simply the best in the Philippines. You can just sit by the beach (with a bottle of beer or wine in hand) and watch as the sun disappears over the pink horizon. The view of the sunset from Crafty's Rooftop Bar is one of the best on the island. Aside from the sunset, it gives you a grand view of the entire island, coconut foliage and all. The roofttop bar is located at the top of the Crafts of Boracay Deli (behind D'Mall, by the main road).

View of the sunset from Crafty's Rooftop Bar. Photograph by redpirates

Skim it, mate!
If you happen to be strolling down the beach on a lazy afternoon, you'll most probably catch sight of some locals skimboarding gracefully across the water. The whole technique behind skimboarding (which started in Long Beach, California around the 1920s) is really just running on the beach and dropping your board on a thin layer of water of an incoming wave. There are skimboard shops all over the beach where you can rent a board for Php200 per hour. It's a great and fun way to pass the afternoon, with the locals teaching you how to skim like a pro!

Local skimboarders at sundown. Photograph by Sheila Aurelio

Sail with the wind
The easiest way to tour Boracay island is by boat. Pump boats are a normal sight at the port of Caticlan, since they transport tourists to the island. Smaller versions of these are also used for island hopping. But if you're the type who is always eager to experience new things, then paraw sailing is a must-do activity for you on the island.

A paraw is a local outrigger sailing boat that's indigenous to Boracay. Aside from the fact that it's more environment-friendly than the pump boat (since you rely on the breeze to get you around instead of a gas-guzzling motor), it's a real treat to lay down on the nets that extend from the sides of the hull and feel the sun and breeze as you sail along.

Lazing around on a paraw. Photograph by Perry Aragon

Escape to Boracay NOW!
Mango Tours offers travel packages to Boracay starting at just $88! Visit our website and browse through our available accomodations at 357 Boracay Resort, Alta Vista de Boracay, Fairways and Bluewater, Microtel Inn & Suites and Seawind Resort. To book a trip, give us a call at *1-866-2-MANILA and we'll be glad to help you out with your vacation!

*US toll free number