Tarlac

A melting pot of different cultural groups, Tarlac is known for Hacienda Luisita, the Cojuangco family’s vast sugar plantation. Concepcion is the hometown of the hero Benigno Ninoy Aquino and his wife, President Corazon Aquino. Ultramodern Luisita Mall along the main highway is a stopover for travelers. Camaling was the hometown of Leonor Rivera, Jose Rizal’s fiancée. It’s the site of the Maria Clara Museum and an impressive church. Capa’s Death March monument commemorates the survivors of the infamous World War II march who were confined at Camp O’Donnell.

Other attractions include Dolores Hot Springs, Bamban Park and Caves, and Magsaysay Dam.