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Butuan: More than Just a City

 

One can never go wrong in choosing this exotic city in the Caraga region as its travel destination during whatever time of the year it maybe. Whether you are in the mood to go sun bathing or just indulging in the province's sights and culture, Butuan offers you more reasons to stay.

There are several modes of transportation when visiting the city. Butuan is accessible via air with its domestic airport, while travelling via boat is even easier from points like Bohol, Cebu, and Manila. Checking with the local travel agents may help because travel rates vary depending on your preferred mode. Once you reach the city, land travel gets hassle-free with the availability of tricycles, jeepneys, taxis, and buses.

Interesting sights  

A lot of the historical objects in Butuan were unearthed in the Agusan River. The most interesting is the Golden Tara, which is a figurine made of 21k gold, that was found in the riverbank by a local inhabitant.

  The Balangays, or Butuan boats, are also a definite must see because of its intricate and unique design that cannot be seen at any other place. Another favorite destination among the mountaineers is Mount Mayapay that rises almost 700 meters high.

Most of the heritage that speak of the province's history are preserved and displayed at the Butuan Regional Museum, which is divided into two: the Archaeological Hall for collections dating from its ancient history and the Ethnological Hall for those that detail the modern life of the Butuan natives.

Strong culture Butuan also has several festivals, most of which are held in honor of their patron saints.

The Kahimunan Festival is held every third Sunday of January. During this time, people perform dances and ceremonies on the streets in honor of Sto. Nino. This is the natives' way of thanking their patron saint for the good harvest that they are reaping.

The Abayan Festival, which is held every last Sunday of July, is done in honor of their other patron, Saint Anne. While the common tradition is to have a float sail in the river with the statue of St. Anne, the festival also became popular for its annual baroto race, a competition between colorful, little boats.

Further visits

Butuan is more than just its artefacts, relics, and festivals. It is also a destination for a number of beaches that it boasts of.

For divers, Barangay Vinafor offers a good diving site. If you prefer to see real diving action, then the optimal time to visit the place is in the morning or in the afternoon. However, if you prefer solitude, the scene is also good at night. Jabonga Beach also offers an alternative diving spot, with its beaches situated side-by-side.

For the laidback people, the Cubi Cubi and Tinago beaches are right for you. Both beaches have cottages and resorts that can surely cater yours and your buddies' vacation needs at any time of the year.