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BY  Sibashree Jun 28, 2025

A group of researchers from the University of Santo Tomas has prepared a full-fledged report on how sustainable tourism can be the future of Siquijor. The study, “Conservation of Sustainable Ecotourism on the Island of Siquijor through Sustainable Alternative Livelihoods, Training and Development,” has also factored in the needs of the island's inhabitants to promote sustainable tourism. At the same time, Siquijor remains a hidden gem while Bohol and Cebu, its neighbors, get more attention.  However, Siquijor has the serene vibe, mystical charm, and natural beauty to be a tourism hotspot. Additionally, it enables you to be part of cultural discovery, adventure, and relaxation.  So, you can be an adrenaline junkie or someone who enjoys the company of nature. Siquijor has everything for travelers of all types.  Do you also feel like unwinding in Siquijor? Let’s talk about the things to do in Siquijor in this Tour and Travel Guide. However, before that, I want to discuss how to travel to Siquijor. How Do I Travel To Siquijor? Enjoy A Beautiful Ferry Ride Siquijor does not have an airport. You have to reach this island in the heart of the Philippines by ferry. You can take a ferry from Cebu or Dumaguete. Dumaguete is the closest neighbor of Siquijor, and the ferry ride will take around 1 hour. Meanwhile, from Cebu, a ferry ride to Siquijor will take 4-5 hours.  From Cebu, a ferry ride to Siquijor will take 4-5 hours. Are you traveling from Manila? Consequently, take a flight to Dumaguete or Cebu and then a ferry ride to Siquijor.  Unique Things To Do In Siquijor: What Is Siquijor Famous For? March to May, or the dry season, is the best time to visit Siquijor. Meanwhile, the sea remains calm during the dry season. So, water activities, including boat rides, become the most enjoyable in these months.  So, water activities, including boat rides, become the most enjoyable in these months. Now, many people project Siquijor as a year-round attraction. However, it experiences heavy rainfall from October to June. Also, the sea becomes tumultuous during these months. However, irrespective of the time of your visit, you will love the following things to do in Siquijor.  1. Plan A Visit To The Cambugahay Falls A beautiful three-tiered waterfall in Lazi! Cambugahay Falls looks stunning against the backdrop of lush greenery. Further, it has crystal clear water, gleaming in the Sun.  The things to do here are: Swimming Relaxing Soaking in the natural beauty of the island Dipping into the natural pools And? You can live your Instagram dream by swinging from the vine rope hanging above the water. However, if you have to take a short trek through the jungle path to reach the waterfall.  2. Visit The Old Enchanted Balete Tree: The Spirits Are Waiting  When the BBC called Siquijor “A paradise island with a reputation for witchcraft,” we all took note. But how did it get its name? Let’s decode. Firstly, also known as the “Mystical Island,” Siquijor is also home to the Balete Tree.  Secondly, this ancient tree located in Enrique Villanueva town is 400 years old.  Thirdly, in local folklore, various spirits and supernatural beings live in this tree.  Finally, the tree is gigantic in size, and it is surrounded by cool and clear spring water.  3. Enjoy The Turquoise Water And White Sand Beach At Salagdoong Beach Do you want to relax at the beach? All in all, Salagdoong Beach will be your go-to destination. White powdery sand and turquoise water make it stand out. Located in Maria, this beach also offers an adventurous experience as you dive from the dramatic cliffs, with heights ranging from 8 to 15 meters. While the Sun goes down, and after a day full of adventure, you need to relax. Additionally, you can take the small local cottages for rent and spend the night watching the Moonlight dancing in the water.  4. Scuba Diving At Siquijor’s Best Dive Spots Siquijor has Paliton Beach, where divers can explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and vibrant marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish. For instance, another popular dive spot is Mae’s Rock, where divers can see an abundance of underwater creatures, such as:  Nudibranchs Lionfish Macro Critters Are you a beginner? Don’t worry, even so, as the island has many diving schools that will help you start your scuba diving journey.  5. Visit The Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary Do you want to learn about the life cycle of butterflies, their role in the ecosystem, and conservation efforts in the region? The first thing to remember is, visit the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary in Lazi.  At the same time, it is also a beautiful place to take photos for your socials and stroll through the peaceful gardens.  6. Explore The Old Churches And Historical Sites: Being Familiar With The Essence Of Siquijor St. Francis of Assisi Church in Lazi is one of the most prominent historical landmarks of Siquijor.  While this stunning Spanish-era church was built in 1857, and its coral stone construction still evokes a sense of awe!  However, San Isidro Labrador Church is another attraction here, and it is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, dating back to the 16th century.  7. Trek To Mt. Bandilaan National Park: Nature And Mysticism At Its Best  Hike to the Bandilaan and enjoy the most thrilling panoramic view of the island and the surrounding ocean. Also, the national park has a natural spring and a sacred grotto. Thus, trekking through this national park feels like a spiritual experience. 8. Be A Part Of The Healing Festival And Know The Island’s Spiritual Heritage In the month of May, Siquijor hosts the Healing Festival. Meanwhile, spiritual guides, herbalists, and local healers gather to share their knowledge in the following sectors:  Energy healing Natural remedies Traditional medicine While it is your chance to be a part of healing treatments and workshops on ancient practices of the island.  9. A Nighttime Firefly Tour: You Will Not Find This Experience Anywhere Else Picture a scene! You are lying on the beach, and suddenly, fireflies eradicate the darkness and light up the night sky! Meanwhile, this is what you will see on a firefly tour in Siquijor. However, quiet rivers and mangrove forests on the island are the ideal location. You can take a ride in the banca boat or kayak to spot the fireflies in the trees, around you, and everywhere!  10. Have The Most Amazing Seafood And Beach Experience When in Siquijor, don’t miss: Grilled fish Shellfish Crabs Sinigang na baboy Kinilaw Meanwhile, you must also try the local desserts and bring some fresh produce as cherished souvenirs.  Things To Do In Siquijor: Frequently Asked Questions Here are a few questions and queries on the topic of things to do in Siquijor that others have asked that you might find helpful at the same time. 1. What Makes Siquijor Different From Other Philippine Islands?  Siquijor stands out for its mystical folklore, healing traditions, uncrowded beaches, and lush inland landscapes.However, unlike more commercial destinations, the island offers a quiet, authentic experience that blends nature, culture, and spirituality.  2. What Are The Most Unique Experiences To Try In Siquijor?  Some of the most unique things to do in Siquijor include visiting traditional healers, swimming in turquoise waterfalls like Cambugahay Falls, cliff jumping at Salagdoong Beach, exploring centuries-old balete trees, and snorkeling in crystal-clear marine sanctuaries.  3. Can Visitors Really Experience Siquijor’s Mystical Traditions?  Yes, visitors can learn about Siquijor’s mystical side by meeting local healers, exploring folklore sites, and visiting areas known for traditional herbal medicine and spiritual rituals, especially during Holy Week.  4. Are Siquijor’s Waterfalls Worth Visiting?  Absolutely. Siquijor is home to some of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls in the Philippines.Cambugahay Falls is the most famous, but Lugnason and Lagaan Falls offer quieter, more adventurous experiences.  5. Is Siquijor A Good Destination For Beach Lovers?  Yes, Siquijor is ideal for travelers seeking peaceful beaches and coral-rich waters. Spots like Paliton Beach, Tubod Marine Sanctuary, and Kagusuan Beach are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset watching.  6. What Unique Cultural Sites Can You Visit In Siquijor?  Unique cultural attractions include centuries-old Spanish-era churches, historic convents, and the legendary 400-year-old balete tree in Lazi, which is deeply rooted in local myths and history.  7. Is Siquijor Suitable For Adventure Seekers?  Yes, adventure lovers can enjoy cliff diving, jungle trekking, motorbike island loops, freediving, and cave exploration, all set against dramatic coastal and forest backdrops.  8. How Many Days Are Ideal To Explore Siquijor’s Unique Attractions?  A stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal to experience Siquijor’s beaches, waterfalls, cultural landmarks, and mystical traditions without rushing.  9. What Is The Most Unique Way To Explore Siquijor?  Renting a scooter or motorbike is the most unique and immersive way to explore the island, while allowing travelers to discover hidden beaches, local eateries, and inland villages at their own pace.  What Not To Do In Siquijor Island?  Siquijor Island is renowned for its clean and serene water, perfect for scuba diving. The Apo Island is one of the most popular places in the entire country for its water activities. However, if you have time to spare, then you can avoid certain tours in Siquijor Island, and visit the Dumaguete or Dauin, it is quite cheaper than Siquijor. Read Also: What Is The Best Luang Prabang Food Tour? (With A Luang Prabang Food Tour Itinerary) Is Munduk Bali Worth Visiting? (Direction, Things To Do, Unique Attractions, And More) What Are The Unique Things To Do In Thailand, Phuket? The Ultimate Guide

BY  Sibashree Oct 30, 2025

A golf trip to Thailand! Now that’s something else. It’s not just a vacation; it’s golf, sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back Thai feeling all mixed together. Sounds great, right?  And it might seem like a lot to plan at first, but honestly, it’s not that bad. With a bit of prep and the right mindset, you can pull off a trip that runs smoothly and ends up being one of those “I’ll never forget that” kind of weeks. Here is more on how to make your golf holidays in Thailand unforgettable.  Understanding Why Thailand Is So Special For Golf So here’s the thing. Thailand’s kind of sneaky about being one of the best golf spots out there.  The weather’s good most of the time, the courses look amazing, and the service... man, they really care about making you feel welcome.  One day you could be playing through jungle fairways in Phuket, and the next you’re in Hua Hin with mountain views all around. Every area has its own thing going on. And it’s not just golf either. Thailand has this relaxed rhythm to it. You finish a round and next thing you know, you’re sitting by the beach eating grilled fish or wandering through a night market.  Maybe you get a massage because, well, you earned it. That mix of great golf and total chill time? That’s the magic. Choosing The Right Destinations For Golf Holidays In Thailand Alright, first choose where to go. Thailand’s main golf areas are Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Phuket, and each one’s got a different vibe. Bangkok’s busy, sure, but it’s got a ton of courses and easy access from the airport. Hua Hin’s quiter, sort of classy, with views of the sea.  Pattaya’s lively (to say the least) but full of fun and variety. And Phuket... well, that’s just pure island life. Feels like you’re playing in a postcard half the time. Try mixing a couple of them if you can. A few days in Bangkok and Hua Hin work great. Or Phuket and Pattaya, if you want both beach and nightlife. Keeps things fresh, you know? Finding The Right Golf Courses Thailand’s got loads of courses — fancy ones, budget ones, and pretty much all of them are in good shape. Think about what you enjoy most. Some people like a challenge, others just want those wide fairways and nice views. Honestly, most golfers mix it up — one big “wow” course, then a few laid-back rounds where nobody’s really keeping score. You don’t have to sort it all out now. Check some reviews, maybe watch a couple of YouTube clips, or ask someone who’s been. If that’s not your thing, just get a local golf company to handle it — they know the best spots anyway. Where To Stay Hotels and resorts in Thailand... there’s something for every budget. Simple, fancy, whatever you like. Try to stay close to the golf courses or somewhere near the beach — saves you a lot of time. If you’re going with a group, look for a place with a pool or a bar where everyone can hang out after the game. And honestly, the people here are so friendly. The staff always seem to notice what you need before you even ask. It’s kind of amazing. Getting Around Getting around’s not hard, but yeah, those golf bags can be a hassle. It’s smart to set up your airport rides and course transfers before you get there. Most folks go with private vans that have air-con (and trust me, you’ll be thankful for that in the afternoon heat). Having a driver who knows the golf routes is a big help, too. You don’t have to worry about getting lost — just sit back, chill, and watch the scenery roll by. Adding Local Experiences Let’s be real — if you fly all the way to Thailand just to golf and go home, you’re missing half the fun. Between rounds, try something different. Maybe a longtail boat ride, a Thai cooking class, or a few hours in a spa. Night markets are great too — good food, random stuff to buy, and that fun chaos you can’t really explain. Oh, and if you like a drink, local rum and gin are becoming a thing now. Little side adventures like that make the trip more yours, you know? The Best Time To Travel The best months are November to March. Nice weather, dry, and not too hot. But if you don’t mind a few clouds, the months just before or after that are still great — fewer people and better prices. Even when it rains, it usually passes quickly, and you’re back out playing again soon. Just plan around it a bit, and you’ll be fine. Traveling With Friends Golf trips with friends hit different. Thailand’s perfect for it — easygoing people, good food, warm weather, and a pace that fits everyone. You can plan a few friendly matches, a silly competition, or just play for fun. Most courses have really nice clubhouses too — perfect for sitting down after the round, grabbing a drink, and laughing about that one shot nobody saw coming. Why Planning Golf Holidays In Thailand With Experts Makes It Easier You can plan everything yourself, sure, but honestly, a golf travel expert can make things so much easier. They deal with tee times, rides, hotels — all the little details that can eat up your time. One of the best ones out there is Fairways of Eden. They’re based right in Thailand and focus only on golf holidays. You can build your trip from scratch with them — choose your courses, hotels, and add whatever extras you want. It’s all in one place, which makes life a lot simpler. And no, using them doesn’t mean you lose control. It just means you get to relax knowing someone’s got your back when you land. Making Your Golf Holidays In Thailand Truly Unforgettable The best memories from a golf trip aren’t just about perfect weather or amazing greens. It’s the stuff in between — the laughs, the sunsets, the random moments you didn’t plan for. Take your time. Listen to your caddie. Enjoy the quiet. Let Thailand’s slow rhythm kind of take over for a bit. Every smell, every sound, every smile adds something to the story. When you finally head home, you’ll realize it wasn’t just about golf at all. It was about finding a place that fits — golf, people, peace, and a bit of adventure all wrapped together. So yeah, whether you do it all yourself or get Fairways of Eden to help, your unforgettable golf trip to Thailand really just starts with one idea — play the game you love in a place that feels made for it.

BY  Sibashree Jan 28, 2026

Malacca gave me pieces of history, an insane fusion of cultures and cuisine that I can still remember now, and plenty of tourist attractions with meaning behind them.  There are many similarities between Georgetown, Penang, and Malacca – I hear that line all the time – but Malacca has a quieter atmosphere that you can feel when you walk through the streets. For starters, Georgetown and Malacca are both UNESCO World Heritage sites. You have no excuse not to visit either of these cities.  Malacca is located right between Singapore and KL, and it’s also a convenient spot to visit if you’re going to be in the area. Alright, no excuses. Need to visit Malacca in a day? Yes, you can definitely visit it on a day trip if you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur. I’ve also compiled a list of things to do in Malacca! How To Reach Malacca? Malacca can be found on the southeastern coast of Malaysia. The city lies nearly midway between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, though it is slightly nearer to KL.  Buses to Malacca operate from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, in addition to routes from Penang. You can also catch buses directly from KL Airport if you prefer not to spend time traveling there.  As I stated, taking a day trip from KL to Malacca is quite simple. How To Get Around Malacca? Although walking was my favored way to navigate Malacca, there are other alternatives available.  You can effortlessly arrange light-up rickshaws, taxis, and Grab ride shares to navigate the city.  If you’re coming to Malacca by bus, check if your hotel offers a free shuttle, as mine does.  If not, since Malaka Sentral is 3km away from Jonker Street, you'll have to use a taxi or take the local bus. Where To Stay In Malacca? Determining accommodation in Malacca should be straightforward if you concentrate on Chinatown.  There is no shortage of budget accommodations in Malacca, and I happily recommend Hotel Hong.  Simple and affordable, the employees were pleasant, and it was located in a fascinating neighborhood near the community mosque.  It contributed to making my time in Malacca a pleasant experience. What Are The Unique Things To Do In Malacca? Malacca's diverse cultures have influenced its captivating history, food, and architecture.  There are numerous activities in Malacca that allow you to discover these aspects of the city even more. View these eight as your foundation. 1. Exploring The Dutch Square Dutch Square is likely the ideal location to begin a visit to Malacca as it lies at the heart of the city's historic center.  Situated by the city's riverbank, this square is visually striking and carries historical importance.  At the center of Dutch Square lies a lively garden and fountain that are pleasant, but the stunning Dutch colonial buildings surrounding this square are the true highlight.  Painted uniformly in an earthy red hue, it's improbable you ever envisioned Malaysia resembling this.  However, Malaysia has many reminders of its colonial history, just like Malacca. This assortment of reminders truly possesses an impressive appearance. The primary attractions of Dutch Square include the Stadthuys, Christ Church Melaka, and the Malacca Clock Tower.  All were constructed in the 17th century by Dutch settlers, thus the square's name.  The Stadthuys, previously the home of the Governor, now contains an ethnographic museum. 2. Climbing To St. Paul’s Church As you ascend the side of the Stadthuys, you ought to notice a tiny staircase leading up the hill a little.  As you progress along this path, you’ll make your way to the summit of the hill and the atmospheric remains of St Paul’s Church.  The remnants of this roofless church hold a prominent position atop St Paul’s Hill, offering views across much of Malacca.  It's not a very challenging hike, and the church serves as a natural pause along the Malacca sights trail. Originally constructed by the Portuguese in the 1500s, it was harmed, restored, and renamed by the Dutch when they seized Malacca in the 1600s.  For more than a hundred years, the church has remained in decay, its stained walls serving as a testament to Malacca's intricate history. Additional reminders can be discovered by taking the northern route down from St Paul’s Hill, where you will come across several tombstones and the Dutch Graveyard. 3. Exploring A Famosa Before the Dutch came, Malacca was a fortified settlement of the Portuguese known as A Famosa. Numerous walls and fortifications from A Famosa were destroyed during the Dutch conquest, but Portuguese traces remain in several sites. Among the defenses, only the Porta de Santiago gate is still preserved. Capturing a picture here is undoubtedly one of the most popular pastimes in Malacca. 4. Taking A Tour Of The Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum Let’s not forget that before European settlers showed up, people were already living here.  The Malacca Sultanate ruled this area for over a century before the Portuguese ever set foot on these shores. When the Portuguese landed in the early 1500s, they didn’t waste any time. They tore down the sultan’s palace and put up St Paul’s Church right where it stood. Now, if you walk around Malacca, you’ll come across what looks like a real Sultanate Palace. Here’s the thing: it’s not the original.  The Melaka Sultanate Palace you see today is a detailed reconstruction from the 1980s. The reconstruction work took the old records as a guide.  Inside, there’s a museum that really dives into the culture and history of the city. Stroll through the gardens or check out the museum’s exhibits—you’ll see plenty about local traditions, clothing, legends, and more.  Honestly, it’s one of the most interesting spots to visit if you want to get a real feel for Malacca’s past. 5. Seeing The Melaka Riverfront Although there are more famous attractions in Malacca, the river undeniably stands as the city's primary landmark.  Winding through the larger city before dividing the Old Town from the colonial areas, the Melaka River is difficult to overlook.  When Malacca was a prominent port city, the river played a role in its prosperity. Nowadays, it fulfills its role by providing guests with river cruises and beautiful views. 6. Eating At Jonker Street Undoubtedly, no street in Malacca is more renowned than Jonker Street.  While it often appears to be just a primary road in the Old Town, the atmosphere shifts significantly on Friday and Saturday nights.  You see, that’s when the renowned Jonker Street night market takes place, and the street transforms into a crowd of people and food vendors.  Naturally, with my luck, I ended up overlooking this important attraction entirely by visiting at the wrong point in the week.  The Jonker Street night market is an excellent spot to sample traditional local Nyonya dishes along with innovative new foods.  To get a sense of what’s available, try the food here.  7. Wandering Through Old Chinatown However, the Old Town of Malacca offers much more than merely Jonker Street. Venture in any direction from this point and you'll quickly discover tighter streets, where each home exudes unique charm.  Half Chinatown and half Old Town, this district reveals another aspect of Malacca’s cultural blend.  Most impressively, distanced from the hustle of other areas in Malacca, strolling through this more tranquil section of the city allows you to absorb all the intricacies.  Although many of these historic residences feature weathered exteriors, several are completely deserted.  But isn’t that character, though? In any case, the softer atmosphere here is evident, with individuals simply going about their daily routines and extending a cheerful wave.  Malaysia can be chaotic and noisy at times, making my walks here distinctly memorable.  8. Visiting The Cheng Hoon Teng Temple Walk around the streets of Malacca’s Chinatown, and you’ll spot plenty of temples—no surprise there.  But it’s not just Chinese temples lining the streets. You’ll also find mosques and Hindu temples mixed in, which gives the area this cool, unexpected blend. In Malacca, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple stands out above the rest.  It sits right across from another temple, Xiang Lin Si, but Cheng Hoon Teng is the one with the real history behind it. They built it back in the mid-1600s, which actually makes it the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia. When you look at all the intricate details, the carvings, and the roof ornaments, it’s wild to think how well everything’s held up after all these years. Cheng Hoon Teng does not belong to just one religion.  Inside, you’ll find people practicing Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, all under one roof. That kind of mix is rare, and it gives the temple a unique energy you don’t see everywhere. Other Places You Can Add To Your Itinerary In Malacca Although I’ve mentioned the most remarkable and significant activities to engage in Malacca, they aren't the sole options.  Malacca hosts numerous other cultural sites, featuring a variety of museums. However, it also features a playful aspect, ranging from its Upside Down House to the Taming Sari Tower to the Oceanarium.  Generally, you will primarily remain in locations close to Chinatown or Dutch Square. Read Also: Luang Prabang Temple Guide: What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Laos? 5 Top Bangkok Attractions to Add to Your Itinerary 5 Best Temples To Visit In Bangkok