Albay is famous for...
Ceramics / Pottery
The province is noted for finely crafted jars and pottery from the municipality of Tiwi.
Hand-Made Paper
Also of note are the fine-quality hand-made paper products from the municipality of Sto. Domingo.
Pili Nuts
The stinging taste of Bicolano cuisine is neutralized by the sweetness of pili, a nut which is made into various confections.
Mayon Volcano
One’s visit to the Bicolandia is not complete without catching a captivating view of Mayon Volcano, the world’s most perfect cone and Bicol’s fiery maiden. Her name was derived from the Bikol word “Magayon,” which literally means beautiful. The peak, likened to the legendary beauty Daragang Magayon, is often concealed by clouds urging first-time visitors to stay longer to admire her charm. Despite her enigma which has left a trail of death and destruction brought about by her 15 eruptions, her tantrums have become spectacular fireworks displays to behold.
Cagsawa Ruins
One of the most visited places in the province, Cagsawa Ruins Park in Daraga affords tourists an unhampered vista of majestic Mayon Volcano. Standing prominently are the ruins of Cagsawa Church, which was buried by molten lava when it erupted on February 1, 1814, killing some 1,200 persons who converged inside it for safety.
Gastronomic Delights
Relish Bicolandia’s mouth-watering indigenous cuisine, notably, Bicol Express (spicy pork and shrimp concoction), cosido (fish soup), balaw (small shrimps), natong, candingga, and pinangat. These are made more flavorful by the Bicolano’s penchant for spice.
Abaca Products
Albay’s prime souvenirs are abaca products creatively crafted into infinite creations such as home decor, office and personal paraphernalia and exported worldwide. Abaca is considered the world’s strongest fiber. These souvenirs are abundant in Daraga and Tabaco.
Albay Park and Wildlife
A picnic grove and a park all rolled into one, this place is the best way to commune with nature. Have a satisfying get-together with your family and friends while roaming the park, which houses 347 animals belonging to 75 species. The children can enjoy boat and bike rides, too. The park is situated near the foot of Albay’s famous Mayon Volcano.
Albay / Bicol Trekking
The Bicol region, a narrow trail of land running south from Manila, is studded with volcanoes, and offers a different and exciting experience for mountain climbers. Popular climbs in the area include Mt. Bulusan, Mt. Isarog, and the perfect towering cone of Mt. Mayon, which has one of the finest summit views in the country. However, Mayon is definitely active – it erupted in 1968, 1978, 1984 and 1993. It is constantly monitored by geologists who post warnings of imminent danger. You should consult the local authorities before trekking here.
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