Pam BaroroIn a pageant-crazy country like the Philippines, winning the Miss Universe 2015 crown and having the 2016 coronation held in our turf is a big dream come true. And, while we can’t all be the lean, 5-8-footer bikini-clad lady who gives out the wittiest responses to impress the judges, we can just be proud for our fellow Pinay who is representing our country’s name.
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If that isn’t enough for you, why not try to live the life of a beauty queen and follow the 2016 candidates’ itinerary around the country instead?
Cebu
Despite a lot of criticisms from environmental groups and past beauty queens, twelve of the candidates swam with the controversial whale sharks in Oslob, a southern town of the province. But, you can always skip that one and enjoy other adventures such as canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, for example. While you’re in the province, don’t forget to visit the oldest Church in the country, the Basilica Del Sto. Niño as well as Magellan’s Cross.
Siargao
A tour around the country will never be complete without a visit to the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, whether you actually surf or not. You probably won’t be going on an all-out photoshoot but you can always have your fill of sun, sand and sea during your stay on the island.
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Boracay
If roughing it out in Siargao Island isn’t your thing, head over to one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, the white sands of Boracay Island. This is your chance to don your best bikini and show off those assets and curves. Sixteen of the candidates also had the chance to weave nets, make fish houses and even participate in a dragon boat activity — and you can, too!
Vigan
A visit to the Baluarte Zoo should never be missed when in Vigan and twenty of the Miss Universe 2016 candidates made sure they didn’t. Just like them during their quick trip, you can also have close encounters with a white lion, an albino python and a black leopard or try pottery and loom weaving. You will probably have to skip on the cultural terno fashion show at the Calle Crisologo, though.
Manila
The country’s capital may be notorious for its traffic but it certainly doesn’t mean that it’s not worth visiting. Like the candidates, you can go on a calesa ride around Intramuros, visit the Luneta Park, eat local delicacies such as taho and bibingka. Or if you can, why not do a haute couture pose in front of the Philippine jeepney?
Baguio
Since you’re already up north, you can also drop by the summer capital of the country and join the festivities. The girls had the chance to join the Panagbenga Festival Parade and, if you plan on doing the same thing, you will have to make your travel plans right away as the celebration closes on the 5th of March.
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Davao
A fashion show scheduled in Davao City last December was cancelled but it seems that the candidates are scheduled for a visit still. It is unsure what they will be doing in the city but if you plan to travel like the beauty queens, there are a lot of things for you to do such as visit the President’s humble home or see the majestic Philippine Eagle in person.
Batangas
Since you aren’t that strapped with time unlike the Miss Universe 2016 candidates, you have a few more days to schedule activities like hiking Taal Volcano, boating at Taal Lake, horse riding, church hopping, diving in Anilao and many more.
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See? You can still be confidently beautiful as you tour around the country! And don’t forget to pack light, too.
