One of the most vital parts of traveling is discovering new destinations. There are many places worth exploring in the Philippines, notably in the geographic division of Luzon. And venturing around the country by land is the best way to do this. What happens when you explore the rest of the country? If you’re living in the big city and want to venture out, here are some unique day tours you can take outside Metro Manila.

You may have heard of the phrase “as proud as a peacock.” These legendary male birds gracefully strut their splendid fan of feathers to attract the less colorful female or peahen. Also dubbed the king of birds, peacocks pompously walk and display their metallic-toned feathers of large eyes tinted in gold, bronze, lapis lazuli blue, and emerald green. A crest or crown of feathers sits atop their heads.

The temperature is rising. There’s no doubt about it: summer is here. It’s time to swap the sweaters for tank tops. There’s not a cloud in the sky, and we can feel the sun on our skin. As we spend the next few weeks at home, what can we do to beat the summer heat? There are some quick and easy options, like turning on the air conditioning or taking another shower. However, not everyone can afford such luxuries. Staying hydrated throughout the day is our best option.

Memphis in southwest Tennessee is famous for being the place where blues, soul, and rock and roll began. Some of the world’s most famous music was made here. For instance, “That’s All Right” by Elvis Presley was what made Memphis the birthplace of rock and roll. Some of the music legends of the city include Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash. There are many exciting things to do in this vibrant city. Explore the city’s live music scene, especially on Beale Street.

Explore Louisiana’s other side by planning a trip to Shreveport in the northwest corner of the state. Shreveport is known for its hospitality, authentic experiences, great food, and entertainment. Celebrate everything from Mardi Gras and craft beers to barbecue and the arts. Here, you can tango with lady luck at the casinos, indulge in Shreveport-style stuffed shrimp, or check out Agora Borealis which is an artisan marketplace.

There’s no place like Montgomery, the capital of Alabama. It is the birthplace of the civil rights movement, with numerous sites commemorating the decades-long campaign by African Americans. These significant sites include Reverend Martin Luther King’s first church, Rosa Parks Museum, and Equal Justice Initiative—Legacy Museum. In Montgomery, immerse yourself in the culture and traverse the streets where world-changing events took place.

Buffalo, in the state of New York, is located on Lake Erie’s shores and less than 30 minutes away from Niagara Falls. However, there is more to Buffalo than being the birthplace of spicy chicken wings. The revitalized “Queen City” has the cosmopolitan character of a major city for a fraction of the price. If you love architecture, seven of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterworks can be found in and around the city.

Bohol is a place for beach lovers, honeymooners, and those who want a really laid-back vacation. It is famous for its natural wonders on land and at sea. Tourists flock to the Central Visayan province to rest and relax on the Loboc River, see centuries-old stone churches, look for tiny tarsiers and, more often than not, climb up the observation deck to view Chocolate Hills. In the sapphire-blue waters, go island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.