Bicol

At the very end of southeastern Luzon lies Bicol, a popular destination among Filipinos looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Scattered across the six provinces that comprise this picturesque region are natural wonders like pristine beaches, whale shark habitats, mountains begging to be trekked, and the Mayon Volcano.

Of course, it’s more than just its natural wonders. The land is teeming with rich history. Vestiges of the Spanish occupation can be found all over from churches to archaeological sites filled with colonial artifacts. The local cuisine is known for being spicy and is even the inspiration for the famous Bicol Express dish.