The Philippines is located in Southeast Asia and is a destination tourists overlook. Of the eleven countries that make up the region, visitors tend to flock to the pristine beaches found in Thailand and the paradise found in Bali, Indonesia.
These places are amazing, but the Philippines is an underrated destination with plenty to do and see. There are hidden gems of beaches, food, luxury resorts, and adventure.
Here are seven reasons travelers should visit The Philippines.
The Perfect Weather Year Round
Weather sets the tone for a vacation, and unless you’re going skiing or chasing storms for a hobby, chances are you want the best weather possible to swim, relax on the beach, or explore. The Philippines boasts sunny and warm weather for over half the year.
The dry season runs from November to May, and while the rainy season is from June through October, visitors can still expect to feel the warmth and see the sun during its wet season. It is important to note that typhoon season runs from June to September.
Beaches and Islands Are Surreal
The Philippines is one of the most significant island groups in the world. It comprises approximately 7,641 islands categorized in three main geographical divisions: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
With so many islands, travelers are never too far from a beach. The actual number of beaches is unclear, but some reports say there are more than 36,000. White Beach, El Nido, Coron, Cebu City, and Puerto Princesa are some of the best beaches to visit.
What’s great about a trip to the Philippines is the chance to island hop from paradise to paradise. The most popular islands include Romblon, the Dinagat Islands, Tawi-Tawi, Camiguin Island, and the Tres Reyes Islands.
Food Is To Die For
Filipino food can be hard to come by if you don’t live in a diverse city, so your visit is the perfect time to indulge in some of the best food in Southeast Asia. Visitors will find a unique culture in the Philippines since the Spanish, Americans, and Japanese colonized it.
Maruya is a popular street food known as Filipino banana fritters. The bananas are tossed into a flour and batter until fried crispy. Pancit bihon is the iconic stir-fry made with rice noodles, vegetables, and chicken or pork. You can find it at street vendors or inside restaurants.
The People Are Welcoming
The hospitality in the Philippines stands out. The country ranks among the top 10 friendliest countries in the world and the leading country in Asia. People in the Philippines are proud of their culture and country and look forward to sharing it with others.
It’s A Budget Friendly Destination
Even in all its natural beauty, the Philippines is a standout location because it ranks a top budget-friendly destination. There are budget-friendly hotels, cheap flights, dining options, and inexpensive modes of transportation.
There’s No Shortage of Luxury
The Philippines has many 5-star resorts and hotels for travelers looking for luxury accommodations. Luxury stays exist in Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, Siargao, Manila, and many more.
Some of the most expensive accommodations include Shangri-La Boracay, Miniloc Island Resort, Amorita Resort, Nay Palad Hideaway, and El Nido Resorts Apulit Island – to name a few.
Plenty of Adventure
From its natural wonders, rice fields, museums, and food tours, there’s plenty of adventure to indulge in during your stay.
Outdoor adventures are the most common activities. Travelers put hiking at the top of the to-do list, as well as visiting Puerto Princesa Underground River, the Chocolate Hills Natural Monument, and the Banaue Rice Terraces.