Subic Bay Freeport Zone

Photo by flickr user boviate

Once the largest of the USA's military bases on foreign ground, the naval base in Subic Bay dates back to 1884, and played its part in the Philippine-American war, both world wars and Vietnam before being shut down in 1991 following a massive volcanic eruption from the nearby Mount Pinatubo. Thousands were evacuated and the whole complex was swamped in ash, and though the base eventually reopened, it was deserted again in 1992 as American military forces withdrew at the request of the Philippine government.

Sea views and a strategic location are as important for a seaside holiday destination as they are for a military base, and today you will find only luxury hotels, golf courses, a palm-lined shopping marina, shimmering, white beaches, fresh, local food and a wealth of natural wonders (not least the Subic Watershed Forest Reserve, home to flying foxes, among others). There are even several eco-tourism theme parks. The whole vast area is now referred to as Subic Bay Freeport Zone, since it is tax and duty free.

Written by  larapiegeler.

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