Tourist Attractions in the Philippines
Introduction
What’s your dream holiday destinations? Many people would dream about a trip to a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches and rich culture that awaits. For these people, I recommend locating the small country in south-east Asia — Philippines. Let’s explore why the Philippines is a must-go for travel destinations.
Why Visit the Philippines?
Natural Beauty
An archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, each of them with breath-taking sceneries, the natural beauty of the Philippines is simply unmatched. From towering mountains to majestic beaches, greens as far as the eye can see, and a calm reassuring sea as the backdrop, there’s truly beauty in every nook and cranny. Often, when we take time off work, we dream about going where we will wake up to the soft lapping of waves against the shoreline. And no wonder. Thousands of photos of pristine white beach sands set against endless sea and skies regularly top lists of our favorite images online.
Rich Culture
Colonialism has bequeathed a distinct and diverse Filipino culture of rituals, languages and cuisines, with the Filipino people having a sense of Philippine-ness while remaining sensitive to how outsiders perceive her colonial culture. You have Spain’s Spanish, America’s English and the first Filipinos’ cuisine, and it is the blend of these forces that makes the Philippines special. You find the flavors, folk dances and fiestas of Filipino culture are in perfect harmony; they run deep.
Friendly Locals
Filipinos are very hospitable. You will always feel at home because of their friendly smiles and their willingness and eagerness to help you. The Filipinos will become your family while you are staying with them. In their home, you are welcome.
Top Tourist Destinations
Boracay Island
White Beach
Famous for its white sand and parties it is reputedly the longest white-sand beach in the world. During the day, the beach is popular for sunbathing and water sports. At night it becomes a full-on strip of bars and restaurants.
Water Activities
Snorkeling, scuba diving and kite surfing are also popular activities in the azure waters of Boracay. There is something for any adventure enthusiast in the aquatic realm as you can explore stunning coral reefs and marine ecosystems that house a wide variety of aquatic life forms.
Palawan
El Nido
Dramatic limestone cliffs, empty beaches, hidden lagoons and clear turquoise waters are the natural attractions of El Nido on the Palawan island chain, one of the most famous of the archipelago, and a mecca for nature-lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The spectacular scenery alone is worth the visit: kayak through hidden lagoons, wade secret beaches, pick your jaw up off the floor.
Puerto Princesa
And home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, which is a tour of an underground river moving through darkness enlivened with the bulbous ‘curtains’ of rock above it (stalactites) and those rising from the floor (stalagmites).
Cebu
Historical Sites
Dip your toes in Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro if you want to be reminded of Cebu’s historic legacy through a rotating door to the Philippines’ colonial past. Grenville suggests: ‘You will feel like you time-warped to the 1500s.’
Diving Spots
Divers will be at home in Cebu; Malapascua Island, off Cebu’s northern coast, is home to massive thresher sharks as well as dazzling coral reefs. Beneath the wanderer’s feet on land or in the sea in this part of the world, fairies dance amid find-a-needle-in-a-haystack corals.
Manila
Intramuros
You’ll literally step back in time as you stroll through the alleyways and courtyards of this Spanish colonial walled city and former capital that’s packed with history. Intramuros is the oldest district in the city of Manila.
Shopping and Nightlife
The shopping malls in Manila are the best in all the world, as are the nightlife, clubs, bars and live music spots (if that is your thing). Look beyond the cockroaches, the deadly roads, the desperate poverty, and you’ll discover the bright lights of Manila, the smouldering metropolis.
Bohol
Chocolate Hills
Not all such geological aberrations are so striking. These ones certainly are. Come at the right time of year, when the hills have gone the color of chocolate, and you’ll see why this is regarded as one of the country’s most recognizable sights.
Panglao Island
Popular for its dive sites and its white sand beaches, a visit to Panglao Island is a chance to simply slow down and unwind. The beautiful beaches and waters around Panglao Island will make you forget your stress from work.
Hidden Gems
Siargao
Less crowded than Siargao but more picturesque, laid-back and fun to surf, Baler is a favorite among keen surfers, as well as those who prefer just to be on the island. Baler is the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, but it’s fun even just spending time chilling on the beach.
Camiguin Island
Luzviminda Ponce Vda de de Jesus speaks to a local reporter in Camiguin. Known as the Island Born of Fire, Camiguin has volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, bamboo groves, beaches, deserted lagoons, caves and chimneys, but it’s famous for its seven volcanoes. It still breathes fire, just now and then. But that isn’t why I fall in love with it. It’s chemistry between us – a sweet rapport, an elemental, dare-I-say-it, tantalising human connection with nature. That alone ought to make this island one of the jewels of the sea.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Philippines is from November to April, when the dry weather is perfect for island hopping and sun-bathing on the beaches. The typhoon season lasts from June to October, so it would be better to postpone your visit to avoid last-minute cancellations of flights.
Getting Around
Domestic flights, ferries and buses are the chief modes of transport. For ground transport on a local level, you can’t go wrong with the classic jeepneys and tricycles. These vehicles are further adventures you can enjoy!
What to Pack
Bring clothes that you can layer, are lightweight, and easy to pack, along with your swimsuit, sun protection and insect repellent. A small, waterproof pouch for your camera and other items is an absolute necessity. And don’t forget some local cash, in case you stumble on somewhere that does not take credit cards.
Conclusion
Holidays in the Philippines are all about your encounters with its natural wonders, culture and locals. A beach bum, adventure seeker or history buff, Philippines has it all. Go and make your own lasting memories. Happy travels!
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit the Philippines?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April.
- Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?
Filipinos require a visa, although many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Check with the Philippine embassy.
- What are the must-try foods in the Philippines?
You can also taste the sumptuous viands of Adobo, Sinigang, Lechon, and Halo-Halo. Learn more about Filipino food!
- Is the Philippines safe for tourists?
The Philippines is, in general, safe for tourists. However, there is a risk, so it is still important to pay attention to your surroundings and take note of safety advice from locals.
- What is the currency used in the Philippines?
The currency used is the Philippine Peso (PHP).
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