7 Things to Do in Leyte

There's more to Leyte than moron and scallops. Here's a list of activities for the first time traveler. 

1. Visit the Leyte Landing Memorial at Red Beach, Candahug, Palo, Leyte. It is said that the largest naval battle in modern history took place in the seas surrounding Leyte island. The landing of the Americans in Leyte was Gen. Douglas MacArthur's fulfillment of his promise to return to the country after the fall of the Philippines to the Japanese in 1942. The end of the Japanese occupation soon followed after the landing. 

2. Score some moron and roscas. You can read more here and here. 

the curiously-named moron

kidney-shaped roscas, perfect with tea or coffee

3. Feeling adventurous? Try skewered chicken skin at Penduko's Barbecue. Among the row of stalls, it was easy to spot since it had the most number of patrons. What makes the barbecue good? The secret is in the sauce, which comes in two variants: regular and spicy. You can also choose from pork and chicken barbecue, chicken liver, as well as chorizo. Cheap and tasty, this one's perfect for the budget traveler. More pictures here. 

4. Get your fill of fresh seafood at Ocho Seafood and Grill. Again, going by Manila prices, dining here is a steal. Read more here.

scallops the way it should be--fresh, and not drowning in butter

For a place more picturesque, try Rafael's Farm.

5. Take the requisite photo at the San Juanico Bridge, connecting Leyte to Samar. It is the longest bridge in the country over a body of seawater 

6. Cross over Basey, Samar and buy woven mats and visit the church. You can read more here and here. 

7. Gaze at the blue Leyte sky. For me it's the most brilliant I've seen of the sky.