Naga (The Philippines)

Naga, a city with a population of 160,000, is located in the Bicol region in the southeast of Luzon.

What a pleasantly surprising experience it was to visit and stop over in this vibrant, joyful city! Naga's centre is rectangular in shape and built around two pedestrianised squares that are very popular with the locals. Food stands, a giant screen, groups of students, people playing sport, families out for a walk: I enjoyed coming here each evening to stop and watch all these different activities and interactions taking place. Afterwards, I would spend a little time walking around the busy, lively streets before stopping to eat wherever my nose and tastebuds led me. With classy restaurants serving fine cuisine and street stands offering flavoursome food at reduced prices, I really relished and enjoyed my chance to sample the various regional specialities on offer. Try the Bicol express: it's a classic! 

Finally, and if on a surfing-themed trip to the Philippines, don't miss the chance to visit the Camsur Watersports Complex, one of the best places in the world for wakeboarding. The complex is located 30 minutes outside of Naga and has very high quality facilities and its own unique atmosphere, and you even get views of Mount Isarog too (it's possible to go hiking there). And of course, there's the sport itself, which quickly becomes addictive!