15 Reasons Why the Philippines Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
The Philippines is a beautiful and diverse country located in Southeast Asia. It consists of over 7,000 islands and has a rich cultural heritage that makes it a popular tourist destination. From pristine beaches to historic landmarks, there are countless reasons why the Philippines should be on your travel bucket list. Here are the top 15 things you can do when visiting this amazing country.
1. Visit Boracay Island
Boracay Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The island offers various water activities such as parasailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
2. Explore Palawan
Palawan is another popular destination in the Philippines because of its stunning natural beauty. It boasts limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and underground rivers that are perfect for exploring.
3. Go island-hopping
There are over 7,000 islands in the Philippines waiting to be explored! Going island hopping is one of the best ways to discover some of these hidden gems and experience their unique cultures.
4. Visit Manila
Manila is the capital city of the Philippines with a rich history dating back to Spanish colonial times. Some notable landmarks include Intramuros (the old walled city), Rizal Park (a national park), and Binondo (the world’s oldest Chinatown).
5. Attend festivals
The Filipino people love celebrations and have several fiestas throughout the year showcasing their culture through food, dance, music, parades & costumes like Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan or Sinulog Festival in Cebu City.
6. Taste local cuisine
Filipino cuisine is deliciously diverse with an array of flavors influenced by Chinese & Spanish cuisines which make dishes like Adobo or Lechon stand out among others.
7. Shop at local markets
Philippines’ markets offer a unique shopping experience with various products like clothes, accessories, fresh produce, and souvenirs all in one place. Make sure to visit Divisoria (Manila) or Carbon Market (Cebu) for the full experience.
8. Visit Chocolate Hills
Chocolate Hills are located in Bohol Island and are composed of over 1,200 hills that resemble chocolate mounds. It is considered one of the most iconic landmarks in the Philippines.
9. Go diving in Apo Reef
Apo Reef is a protected marine reserve located off the coast of Mindoro Island that offers some of the best diving experiences in Southeast Asia with its clear waters teeming with diverse marine life.
10. See Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning coral reefs and marine biodiversity which also makes it an excellent location for diving or snorkeling adventures.
11. Learn about Filipino history at Corregidor Island
Corregidor Island played a significant role during World War II as it was used as a fortress by American & Filipino soldiers against Japanese forces during their invasion making it an important historical site to visit.
12. Relax at Batanes Islands
Batanes Islands are often called “The New Zealand” of the Philippines because they have similar landscapes – rolling hills, cliffs which make them perfect for those who want to relax while enjoying nature’s beauty.
13. Go hiking at Mount Pinatubo
Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano located north Luzon island but visitors can hike up this mountain to see its stunning crater lake and surrounding landscapes once you reach its summit.
14. Visit Mayon Volcano
Mayon Volcano is another active volcano located on Luzon island known for having a nearly-perfect symmetrical cone shape making it one of the most beautiful volcanoes around the world – but be cautious as frequent eruptions keep visitors at a safe distance.
15. Stay in luxury resorts
The Philippines is also known for its luxury accommodations in some of the most beautiful locations like Boracay Island, Palawan, and Bohol Island which offer world-class services to guests making their stay truly unforgettable.
In conclusion, the Philippines is a stunning country that has something to offer every traveler. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks and delicious cuisine, this Southeast Asian nation should be on everyone’s bucket list.