Travel Tidbits 7: Corregidor Island Day Tour

(photo credit: RJ Cabaluna)

Corregidor is an island at the entrance of Manila Bay, just an hour boat ride away on one of Sun Cruises' two impressive fast ferries. I say impressive because the term "ferry" can be used very loosely in the Philippines, sometimes referring to a bangka, which was what I was expecting when some friends and I signed on for the tour. 

However, Macy, RJ, Christian, and I were very comfortably carried by two first-class airconditioned catamarans, and I got to take nice little naps each way. :)

On this island, General Douglas McArthur made his famous statement: "I shall return."

(photo credit: Macy Yap)

There are many things to do on the island if you plan an overnight trip, such as hiking, biking, camping, bird watching, and other beach resort activities, however our group of 4 went on a very informative historical day tour which took us around the tadpole-shaped island in a trolley. 

(photo credit: RJ Cabaluna)

(photo credit: Macy Yap)

Corregidor, or "The Rock," served as a military nerve center during the Spanish and American colonial periods (Fort Mills), and the Japanese occupation in Philippine history, particularly during World War II, which you can read more about by clicking here. Defense installations on the island cost the US government $150 million. 

(photo credit: RJ Cabaluna)

(photo credit: RJ Cabaluna)

What remains on this heavily bombed fortress are ruins of a life that once was: old artillery, memorials to the brave souls that fought, symbols of Philippine-American friendship, and most importantly, a reminder of the sacrifice our forefathers made in a fight for freedom.

(photo credit: Macy Yap)

(photo credit: Macy Yap)

Aside from the gorgeous scenery, a nice change of pace from the bustling city, tourists are in for a treat at "Light & Sound Show" inside the Malinta Tunnel, an interesting walking capsule tour of what it was really like for those living on the island, particularly for then President Manuel L. Quezon in hiding.

Macy and I at one of the batteries. (photo credit: RJ Cabaluna)

RJ, Macy, Christian and I by the lighthouse

Arial shot of Corregidor ruins (via web: Wikipedia)

The total package for the day tour costs an all inclusive Php 2,200, with roundtrip transportation, buffet lunch, and a very smart and engaging tour guide. There is, however, an addition Php 150 for those interested in the optional Malinta Tunnel Light & Sound show. 

It was a Saturday morning and afternoon well spent. We certainly enjoyed ourselves... maybe even a little too much. ;)

(photo credit: Macy Yap)