Dear Philippines, you are a tropical wonderland of stunning islands and powdery white sand beaches, a hidden gem of southeast Asia that is waiting to be explored! I am glad to call you home for the past seven years and it has been nothing short of an incredible experience. Despite having a full-time job, living here is like a long vacation, thanks to the numerous places to be explored. I am fortunate to discover every part of this beautiful country, one day at a time!
A trip to the Philippines is perfect for anyone looking to escape the daily grind and treat themselves to a rejuvenating island getaway. Here, you will find options for adventure, relaxation, and total immersion into island life. With over 7,000 islands to choose from, the Philippines is a beach lover’s dream come true. From its chaotic capital, Manila, and crumbling colonial towns to island-hopping and volcanic vistas, the Philippines offers history, culture, nature, and adventures in spades.
Each island has its own unique charm and endless options for unique vacation activities. And that is why the tag line of Philippines is- It’s more fun in the Philippines! Island hopping is the most popular day activity here! You start from a main island and visit various islands, coves, lagoons, coral gardens.
You can do water activities like-Snorkeling and diving through coral reefs that are teeming with diverse marine life or even shipwrecks. Swim with whale-sharks and sea turtles or try your hand at surfing or cliff jumping! You can also choose kayaking through secluded coves or a good swim at hidden lagoons.
I discovered two of the most unique activities after coming to the Philippines. Canyoneering through gorgeous waterfalls and hiking the volcanoes to find the most pristine crater lakes.
Don’t worry if you prefer relaxation over adventure, you can spend your days lounging on secluded beaches under the sun and go island hopping with the local boats and friendly boatmen! Sip buko juice aka coconut water or San Mig Light beer or relish the delicious mangoes and yellow watermelons on the picture-perfect beaches. From luxurious island resorts, comfortable Airbnbs to houseboats, glamping, camping, treehouses, cottages, Kubos (beach huts) you can choose your perfect abode.
Did you know that several Philippine islands and beaches, like Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao have been consistently named as the best in the world? So why not come and see for yourself!
Beyond the beauty and adventures this country offers, the Filipinos’ warmth and hospitality is a reason itself to visit. They are the friendliest and fun-loving people with a culture of respect for everyone. In the Philippines, every visitor is greeted as ma’am or sir. And you can address them as “kuyas” and “ates” with love, translating to elder brother and sister respectively. In fact, the Philippines is often ranked as the friendliest and happiest country in Asia. This reason alone will make you feel like Philippines is your home away from home.
My explorations in the Philippines began the very next day I landed in November 2017, and since then there has been no stopping! My first trip was to the stunning island of Boracay and have traveled to Cebu, El Nido, Coron, Mindoro islands and from North to South of the Luzon Island- the largest Island of the Philippines.
Having traveled extensively here, I have plenty of amazing experiences to share. From secluded islands to weekend gateways and unique stay options. So, stay tuned as loads of Philippines content is going to come your way.
For some reason the Philippines is not on the bucket list for many, but I can say you are missing out a lot by not planning a trip to the Philippines. However, the positive side is that this incredible country is not exploited by over-tourism. You can literally have an entire island to yourself to spend a whole day amidst nowhere. A vacation in the Philippines is your ultimate island escape to make lifelong memories. The only hard part is going to be leaving! So, Mabuhay to the Philippines!
Cliff Jump at Kawasan falls, Cebu
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