By PERCIVAL BUNCAB
THE malls, the cinemas, not even the parks excite you anymore. You are tired of the same weekend hang-outs. The urban life has been exhausting you lately. You want some rest – real rest. Man-made entertainment does not entertain you anymore; you want to explore nature.
Your friends or family might be planning for a next vacation. However, none of you are sure where to go. You already went to Boracay. Even more often, have visited Baguio and Tagaytay. Palawan? You’ve been there also. As much as you want to revisit these beautiful places, you want somewhere new. So where is your next destination for vacation?
Answer: Marawi
“What?” you exclaim, “Marawi? The most dangerous place in the country right now?”
Well, whether or not that statement is true is for another discussion. But, yes, you should visit Marawi next.
Marawi, the capital of Lanao del Sur, is also known as the Summer Capital of the South. Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and a large lake dwell in this rich land. And because of its high elevation, cool air breezes in its atmosphere.
Here are just several places to visit in Marawi, as listed on philippinecities.com:
Agus River, the swiftest river in the Philippines, is located between Brgy. Lilod and Saduc. Remember Maria Cristina Falls, the beautiful twin falls you learned in elementary? This is where it flows.
Lake Lanao, the largest lake in Mindanao and second in the Philippines, has a rich biodiversity, home of several species of crabs, cyprinids, and waterfowls.
Bagang Beach has crystal clear water and surrounded by trees that serve as benches and sheds.
Sacred Mountain National Park, home of virgin forests, is a protected area where Mt. Mupo, a large volcano, dwells.
It’s a perfect place for mountain climbers and bird lovers. A small pond awaits when you reach its summit.
Aside from natural scenery, there are other places to visit in Marawi; like the Aga Khan Museum, located inside the Mindanao State University. It is home of indigenous art, musical instruments, and tools and weapons used by Muslims.
You’ll also enjoy the Dayawan Weaving Village and the Royal Torogan Houses. And of course, being the only Islamic city in the Philippines, you shouldn’t miss to see the artistic mosques around Marawi.
Like many people, chances are, you just heard about Marawi again because of the recent conflicts. But long before the conflicts, Marawi has been one of the top tourist destinations in Mindanao. Not only is the place beautiful, but the people and their culture are just as beautiful. There are more things beautiful in Marawi than its gloomy present. So, it may not be the best time to visit Marawi now, but surely soon, it’s one of the best places in the country to visit in the future.
