Hola Zamboanga!

It has been a while since I last visited Zamboanga City, but I finally had the chance to write a post about it. Zamboanga City has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons in recent years. In 2013, it was the site of a siege by members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). And just recently, a huge blast rocked the restful village of Guiwan. These regrettable events have painted Zamboanga City in a negative light. To most people who have not seen the city for themselves, it may seem like a setting for a war movie. And I cannot blame them for thinking like that, as our media has given great attention to these events.

However, I am here to debunk the misbelief that Zamboanga City is a very unsafe place. I went there a couple of months after the siege, and I can tell you that it is a beautiful and charming city. Here are some of the reasons why I love Zamboanga City:

1. The people here are among the warmest in the country.

Zamboanga City is a city where you can easily make friends. The people here are warm and welcoming, and they are always happy to help a stranger. I once stayed with a friend's family in Zamboanga for almost a month, and I was amazed by their hospitality. Every day, they would invite me to eat with them, and they would not stop until I had taken a plate of food. I have never met such kind and generous people, and I will always cherish my time in Zamboanga City. I hope to return one day and marry a Zamboangueño!

2. People make you feel like you are in a Spanish city.
       

I was looking for a pasalubong when a vendor asked me, "Cosa tabusca?" I replied, "Tagalog po" haha. I found it cute that the vendor spoke in Chavacano, a Spanish-sounding dialect that is widely spoken in Zamboanga City. I was amazed by how well the city has preserved this legacy of the Spanish empire. With this, Zamboanga has truly earned the title of "Asia's Latin City."

This reads "I know how to speak Chavacano, how about you?"

3. Zamboanga has the nicest foods.

Ask a local about the food in Zamboanga City, and they will be happy to tell you about all the delicious dishes that the city has to offer. Some of the most popular dishes include satti, puso, kari, tiulaitum (charred coconut meat stew), curacha, knickerbocker, Zamboanga white, and pastil. My personal favorite is the knickerbocker, a dessert that is similar to halo-halo but with its own unique ingredients. It is made with watermelon, ripe mango, gulaman, strawberry ice cream, and condensed milk. It is a truly heavenly dessert that is sure to please everyone. Hmm, sabroso! 

4. It just has a lot to offer.

If you are an adventurous person, then Zamboanga City is the perfect place for you. There are many things to see and do in Zamboanga, from climbing mountains to exploring historical sites. When going on an adventure, make sure to bring plenty of energy, as you will surely need it.

Here are some of the sights and activities that you can enjoy in Zamboanga City:

• Mount Abong-Abong: This is a popular hiking destination that offers stunning views of the city.
• Zamboanga Ecozone: This is a free trade zone that is home to a variety of businesses and industries.
• Pasonanca Park: This is a large park with a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, a zoo, and a botanical garden.
• Climaco Park: This is a historic park that is home to the Zamboanga City Museum.
• Fort Pilar Shrine and Museum: This is a Spanish fort that was built in the 16th century.
• The City Hall and Plaza Pershing: These are two important government buildings that are located in the heart of the city.
• Merloquet Falls: These are a series of waterfalls that are located about an hour outside of the city.
• La Vista del Mar resort: This is a beach resort that offers stunning views of the sea.
• Camp Susana: This is a military camp that is located on the outskirts of the city.

These are just a few of the many things that you can see and do in Zamboanga City. With its rich history, natural beauty, and abundance of activities, Zamboanga City is a great place to visit for anyone who loves adventure.

5. Zamboanga has good beaches too.

Zamboanga City is often seen as a highly urbanized town with crowded streets, buildings, and houses. However, this city is also surrounded by water, which makes it home to many beautiful beaches. These beaches are among the best unspoiled in the country, and some of the most popular include Bolong, Pitas Island, Salangan Island, and Viva Island.

The most famous beach in Zamboanga City is Sta. Cruz Island Beach. This beach is known for its pink sand, which is caused by the pulverized red organ pipe coral mixed with the white sand. Sta. Cruz Island Beach is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Zamboanga City.

Here are some additional details about the beaches mentioned in the text:

• Bolong Beach is a long, white-sand beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Pitas Island Beach is a small, secluded beach that is perfect for those who want to relax and escape the crowds.
• Salangan Island Beach is a family-friendly beach with calm waters and a playground.
• Viva Island Beach is a popular party destination with a lively atmosphere.

Overall, Zamboanga City is a great place to visit, so why not add it to your travel list for your next trip? If you have any questions or need any help planning your trip, please feel free to contact me. I have many friends from Zamboanga who would be happy to help you make the most of your visit.

P.S.: Don't forget to hit the Like button, thanks! :)