ADVERTISEMENTThe island paradise of the Philippines is an absolute must-visit destination if you’re seeking a diverse array of experiences.
But where do you start on a Southeast Asian archipelago of more than 7,000 islands?
We recommend island hopping as you sample Filipino cuisine and immerse yourself in the country’s diverse traditions and festival celebrations.
From diving into underwater worlds, taking in the diverse nature and exploring the many cultural cities, you'll find it all in what Christina Garcia Frasco, the secretary of tourism, describes as "a myriad of reasons to love the Philippines".
Begin in Manila, then step into nature
For first-time visitors, Frasco recommends you acquaint yourself with the hop-on hop-off bus tour in Manila, the gateway to the Philippines, where you can get "a view into the history and heritage of Manila through the area of Intramuros,” which was once again declared Asia's leading tourist attraction for the year by the World Travel Awards
Then, you can head off and explore some of the award-winning and emerging islands, which are teeming with an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna, as well as impressive natural attractions.
On the popular island of Boracay, you’ll discover pristine palm tree-stretched, white sand coastline, which has undergone an environmental revival in recent years.
Palawan, meanwhile, is something of an ecoparadise, with its coral-ringed inlets. Discover an array of protected marine and wildlife species in both the sand banks and mangrove forests.
You can also visit Tubbataha Reef Marine Park, a remarkable biosphere reserve and coral reef which is one of the Philippines' oldest ecosystems and a UNESCO world heritage site.
Discover old-charm heritage, then dip into top surfing and diving spots
When you’re not hiking in the deep forests and witnessing waterfalls on the outskirts of Cebu, Frasco suggests you head to the city’s historical centre. "We pride ourselves in being the cradle of Christianity in Southeast Asia. You can immerse yourself in the beauty of our heritage churches," she says.
For a quintessential trip that combines city and nature experiences, head to Bohol.
Located just a few hours by ferry from Cebu, Bohol is fast becoming a top spot for ecotourism, mainly thanks to its famed Chocolate Hills with their unique conical formations. While there, why not take a native catamaran cruise on the Loboc River?
If you like to catch some big waves, then head to the country’s many surf spots, including the renowned surfer’s paradise, Siargao Island, where you can also explore its hidden coves, caves, and lagoons.
Or should you prefer to enjoy life underwater, head to top diving destinations such as the coastal resort of Moalboal in Cebu, famed for its spectacular Sardine Run underwater show, or Sorsogon in Bicol where you might be lucky enough to spy whale sharks, and Daanbantayan for spotting thresher sharks, or Puerto Galera on the island of Mindoro, which according to Frasco "offers some of the best diving in the country.,"
For more wistful moments, you can explore the mountainous Cordillera region in the north of the Philippines where you can unearth green Banaue Rice Terraces, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or catch a glimpse of the soaring picture-perfect cone of Mount Mayon volcano in Bicol.
ADVERTISEMENTThe Philippines is one of Asia’s best gastronomic centres
The Philippines is an emerging gastronomic destination, having just successfully hosted the UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific.
"We'll introduce the country's diverse regional flavours through the work of our beloved and renowned chefs, as well as our regional chefs, the work of our farmers, fishermen, local growers, and suppliers," explains Frasco.
You can feast on the country’s fresh delights, such as the juicy fruits of pomelo and papaya, or tuck into sweet delicacies such as Camiguin island's renowned Pastel de Camiguin, a traditional custard-filled soft bun.
Then there are more hearty dishes to try, such as the national favourite ‘adobo’, which is a sweet, salty, and juicy chicken dish, the paper-thin fried spring rolls known as ‘lumpia’, and ‘inasal’, a lemongrass and citrus-infused barbecued chicken.
ADVERTISEMENTIf you really wish to indulge, then head to the UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy, Iloilo, on Panay Island, or Bacolod on Negros Island, which is dubbed Asia’s slow food hub.
It’s time to unwind with more wellness in the Philippines
With its stunning island settings, the Philippines is an ideal place to embrace some relaxation time.
The archipelago, Frasco says, is “home to pristine nature sanctuaries, world-class resorts and wellness destinations that offer not only medical treatments but also opportunities to heal holistically through our Filipino traditions of ‘hilot’ massage." This divine therapeutic treatment combines spiritual energy with massage and has been practised for thousands of years.
If you’re seeking a more luxurious holiday then you’re in luck too, as you’ll find plenty of world-class resorts and hotels across the country. In fact, Boracay Island was just named Asia's Leading Luxury Island Destination at the 2024 WTA Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony.
ADVERTISEMENTIf your travel style is all about immersing yourself in local culture, then you’ll find plenty of chances to do just that in the Philippines.
For example, in destinations such as Mindanao, you have the chance to meet Indigenous peoples through activities that offer a glimpse into their time-cherished practices and traditions.
The best part? The Philippines feels like summer all year round!
You can visit The Philippines throughout the year, even during its rainy season from June to November.
Summer, from April to June, is perfect for beach and island hopping, while September is ideal if you wish to go surfing.
ADVERTISEMENTIf you prefer a cooler climate, then consider December to February.
And there’s one thing that’s guaranteed year-round, as Frasco adds:
"The warmth and the love of the Filipino people pervade all our islands and destinations. So any time is a good time to go."