Laguna is a province located in the Calabarzon region, just south of Metro Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Known for its beautiful scenery, hot springs, and cultural heritage, Laguna has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will explore the history of Laguna, how it has developed over the past 20 years, the top 10 reasons to live and work in Laguna, and five things to consider before making the move.
The History of Laguna
Laguna was originally part of the ancient Kingdom of Tondo before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. During the Spanish occupation, the province became a center for agriculture and trade, with many towns and cities established around the large freshwater lake, Laguna de Bay. The province played an important role in the fight for independence from Spain and later, against the American forces. Today, Laguna is one of the most prosperous provinces in the country, with a thriving economy and a rich cultural heritage.
Development of Laguna in the Past 20 Years
Over the past two decades, Laguna has experienced rapid growth and development. With its close proximity to Metro Manila, the province has become an attractive location for businesses and investors, leading to the establishment of industrial parks, special economic zones, and technology hubs. The province has also made significant improvements in infrastructure, including the construction of new highways, bridges, and airports, making it easier for people and goods to move in and out of the province
Top 10 Reasons to Live and Work in Laguna
Affordable Cost of Living: Laguna offers a lower cost of living compared to Metro Manila, making it a great option for those looking to save money.
Proximity to Metro Manila: Laguna is just a short distance from Metro Manila, making it an ideal location for those who want to work in the city but prefer to live in a more relaxed and peaceful environment.
Tourism: Laguna is known for its beautiful scenery, hot springs, and cultural heritage sites, making it a great destination for tourists.
Accommodation: Laguna offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, making it easy to find a place to live that suits your budget and lifestyle.
Food: Laguna is famous for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like sinigang sa bayabas, buko pie, and puto binan.
Transport: Laguna has a well-developed transport system, including buses, jeepneys, and tricycles, making it easy to get around the province.
Nearby Islands: Laguna is surrounded by several islands, including the popular tourist destinations of Puerto Galera and Boracay, making it a great location for island hopping.
Safety: Laguna is a relatively safe place to live, with low crime rates and a friendly community.
Education: Laguna is home to several top universities and colleges, including the University of the Philippines Los Baños, making it a great location for students.
Job Opportunities: Laguna is home to several industrial parks, special economic zones, and technology hubs, providing job opportunities for both local and foreign workers.
Insights about Laguna Tourism?
Laguna is a popular tourist destination, with a wide range of attractions to suit all interests. Some of the most popular tourist destinations include:
Enchanted Kingdom: a theme park located in Santa Rosa, Laguna, featuring rides, attractions, and live shows.
Pagsanjan Falls: a scenic waterfall located in the town of Pagsanjan, accessible by boat ride.
Rizal Shrine: a historic site located in the city of Calamba, the birthplace of the Philippines’ national hero, Jose Rizal.
Mount Makiling: a dormant volcano located in the town of Los Baños, with hiking trails and hot springs.
Villa Escudero: a resort and museum located in Tiaong, Laguna, offering cultural shows, waterfalls, and a restaurant with dining tables set in the middle of a river.
5 Things to Consider Before Moving to Laguna
Cost of Living: While Laguna is generally more affordable than Metro Manila, it is still important to consider the cost of living, especially if you are planning to live in a more developed area.
Transportation: While there are several modes of transportation in Laguna, traffic can still be an issue, particularly during rush hour. It is important to consider the location of your workplace and the accessibility of public transportation.
Weather: Laguna can get quite hot and humid, particularly during the summer months. It is important to consider whether you can handle the climate before making the move.
Language: While English is widely spoken in the Philippines, particularly in business settings, it is still important to consider learning some basic Tagalog or Filipino to help you navigate everyday interactions.
Cultural Differences: Laguna is a province with its own unique culture and customs. It is important to be open-minded and willing to learn about the local culture and ways of life to ensure a smooth transition.
In conclusion, Laguna, Philippines, is a beautiful and vibrant province that offers many opportunities for those looking to live and work outside of Metro Manila. With its affordable cost of living, proximity to the city, beautiful scenery, and thriving economy, it is easy to see why Laguna has become an attractive location for both locals and foreigners. However, before making the move, it is important to consider the cost of living, transportation, weather, language, and cultural differences to ensure a successful and fulfilling experience.
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