Central Luzon: Dwelling in nature’s abundance

Details

Category: Destination

Published on Sunday, 22 January 2012 06:48

Aurora • Bataan • Bulacan • Nueva Ecija • Pampanga • Tarlac • Zambales

About the region

Composed of the provinces of Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales, Central Luzon is also known as the Central Plain of the Philippines. Its close proximity to Metro Manila makes it the perfect destination for day-trippers and an easy journey for those who wish to explore its various attractions and immerse themselves in the local culture longer.

How to get there and go around

By Air. The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport located in the former Clarkfield Airbase has daily flights to and from various local and international destinations.

By Land. A mere 66 kilometers away from Metro Manila, the region is easily accessible through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). Travel time can range from 45 minutes (Manila-Malolos, Bulacan) to 3 hours via bus (Manila-Olongapo City). Modes of transport include air-conditioned buses with terminals located around Metro Manila, FX taxis, and private rental cars.

Public transportation available for travelers inside Central Luzon provinces and towns are buses, jeepneys, tricycles and pedicabs (bicycles with sidecars).

Where to stay

Its proximity to the nation’s capital gives the day traveler the option to stay in Metro Manila. However, for tourists wanting to stay for a couple of days in the region, accommodations can be availed at varying prices. Popular choices for hotels are Holiday Inn Resort, Clark Field, Microtel Inns and Suites in Tarlac and Nueva Ecija, and Amihan Aplaya Lodge in Aurora.

To learn more, see www.flyphilippines.com.ph/.

What to eat

Central Luzon is home to Pampanga, the province known as the culinary capital of the Philippines. The adventurous traveler should not miss the sisig (boiled and fried minced pig), betute (Stuffed Frog), Buro (fermented rice with fish or shrimps), and camaro (crickets) in Pampanga. The flaky empanada (pastry filled with vegetables and chicken) and pastillas de leche (milk candies) from Bulacan are also worth the trip. A tourist hankering for tropical fruits should not miss the well known sweet mangoes of Zamabales.

What to buy

Various shopping destinations are scattered all over the region. The SM chain of shopping malls can be found in Bulacan, Pampanga and Tarlac. Duty free shopping can also be enjoyed in some establishments within the Subic Bay Freeport, Olongapo City, Zambales. To enjoy Central Luzon’s mercantile culture, a trip to local public markets should be included in the trip.

Additionally, Pampanga is known for its parols, or colorful Christmas lanterns, made of Japanese paper and capiz as well as its well crafted wood carved products.

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