THE TOP-RATED UK-based travel magazine TNT came out with a four-page, full-color article, hailing the 2,000-year-old Banaue rice terraces as one of the best and most unforgettable destinations in the world.
A stunning view of the Banaue rice terraces, with an expanse of green mountains in the background, was the feature’s main photo.
Seasoned British writer and photographer Mike Stratton rued the fact that the Banaue rice terraces was not qualified for the “New Seven Wonders of Nature” poll because organizers did not recognize the terraces as “natural” because the Ifugao people constructed them.
He added that many people in the Philippines and even abroad have long regarded the rice terraces as the Eighth Wonder of the World, online polls notwithstanding.
Stratton pointed to Batad as the finest place to view the rice terraces, and described how Batad’s rustic way of life, its people and its wildlife have made Banaue truly awe-inspiring. Photos of Ifugao locals accompanied the writer’s recount of his stay in Batad.
Taking his readers along the tricky trek to Tappiya Falls, Stratton also engagingly described his precarious hike, but gushed upon reaching his destination: “Tappiya falls was more cappuccino than skinny latte – its powerful, foamy flow plunged 40 meters, thudding with real fury into a pool. At that moment I didn’t need to be told that I was experiencing one of the great natural wonders of the world; I knew it.”
Stratton also gave valuable travel guidelines alongside the Banaue main feature. From Filipino food choices to the best time to visit and how to get around, a round up of the best islands to suit one’s activity fancy, Stratton has provided readers with information they need to prepare for a visit to the Philippines. Cloud 9 in Siargao Island, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, and the Philippine jeepney were featured in breath-taking photos.
“Our diverse attractive spots and rich culture leave lingering impressions that travel enthusiasts just couldn’t resist – so they keep coming back,” Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano noted.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in cooperation with Cathay Pacific Airways, hosted Stratton’s visit to Banaue last summer.
12/20/2009 Mayen Jaymalin, Philippine Star
