I come from the Philippines, an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia that consists of over seven thousand islands, with over a hundred million people who speak over a hundred languages and dialects. Do not fret though; the majority of us speak English.

My country is blessed with diverse wildlife and natural beauty, thanks to its tropical islands, white sandy beaches, rice terraces, majestic mountains, rich flora and fauna, blue waters, interesting diving and surfing spots, and so many more hidden gems.

I’ve spent half of my life living and growing up in the Philippines, and yet there are still some places that are waiting for me to be explored. I look forward to it. For now, let me share stories of my past travels in my home country. 

Here are the places that I’ve been to, and the activities that I can recommend you to try when you plan to visit the Philippines.

EXPERIENCE THE PHILIPPINES

Boracay

Boracay is a small island in the Philippines renowned for its stunning white sand beaches, particularly the famous White Beach that stretches over four kilometers along the western coast. The island has transformed from a quiet backpacker destination into one of Southeast Asia’s most popular beach resorts, attracting millions of visitors annually with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, and water sports activities.

After undergoing a six-month rehabilitation closure in 2018 to address environmental concerns, Boracay has emerged as a more sustainable tourist destination while maintaining its reputation as a tropical paradise.

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Palawan

Palawan is a stunning archipelagic province in the western Philippines, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches. The island is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers flowing through a spectacular cave system.

With its rich marine biodiversity, including world-class diving spots in Coron and the pristine lagoons of El Nido, Palawan is often considered one of the most beautiful island destinations in the world.

EXPERIENCE CORON

Siargao

Dubbed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, Siargao is a teardrop-shaped island famous for its world-class waves, particularly Cloud 9 – its most iconic surf break.

The best surfing season is from September to November when the swells are most consistent. There are different spots around the island that can offer surfing waves and swells particularly fitting for either beginners, intermediate or advanced surfers. 

Beyond surfing, Siargao has developed a vibrant surf culture with numerous cafes, surf shops, and yoga studios catering to the surfing community. The island hosts several international surfing competitions, including the annual Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup.

EXPERIENCE SIARGAO

Bohol

The Chocolate Hills are one of the country’s most distinctive natural landmarks, located in Bohol province. These unique geological formations consist of over 1,200 symmetrical hills spread across an area of about 50 square kilometers.

The hills get their name from their appearance during the dry season when their grass-covered surface turns chocolate brown, making them look like endless rows of chocolate drops dotting the landscape. During the rainy season, they’re covered in lush green grass.

EXPERIENCE BOHOL

Iloilo

Iloilo is home to some of the most beautiful and historic churches, many dating back to the Spanish colonial period.

Officially the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish Church, Miag-ao Church is known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its distinctive sandy-yellow color from local limestone, Baroque-Romanesque architectural style, remarkable facade with intricate tropical-themed religious carvings, unique blend of Spanish and Filipino Catholic elements, and massive buttresses that served as protection against Muslim raids.

EXPERIENCE ILOILO

Dumaguete

Dumaguete is a coastal city on the southeastern coast of Negros Island in the Philippines, known as the “City of Gentle People” for its friendly residents and laid-back atmosphere. The city serves as a popular base for divers and tourists exploring nearby marine sanctuaries like Apo Island, and it’s home to Silliman University, one of the oldest American-founded universities in Asia. Dumaguete’s picturesque waterfront boulevard, vibrant café culture, and proximity to beautiful beaches and mountain landscapes make it a charming destination that blends academic life with tropical island living.

EXPERIENCE DUMAGUETE

Cebu

Cebu is a province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, known for its rich history as the site where Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan first arrived in 1521, marking the beginning of Spanish colonization. The province includes Cebu City, the oldest city in the Philippines and a major economic hub second only to Manila, famous for landmarks like Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño. Cebu is also celebrated for its beautiful beaches, vibrant festivals like the Sinulog, and as a popular gateway to tropical island destinations such as Malapascua and Bantayan.

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Manila

Manila is beaming with a diverse shopping scene, from massive modern malls to vibrant markets. 

One of the largest malls in Asia, Mall of Asia complex in Pasay city offers entertainment options, Manila Bay waterfront dining, indoor arena for events, regular fireworks displays, and massive selection of stores. Bonifacio Global City (BGC) features high-end retail, designer boutiques and international brands, upscale restaurants and cafes, regular weekend markets and art fairs. Makati has several shopping centers such as the Greenbelt complex. Glorietta interconnected malls, Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Century City Mall, The Landmark department store, and even more to come. 

For the one-of-a-kind bargain hunting experience, Divisoria and 168 Shopping Mall are the prime spots to experience the uniquely loud, busy and messy market atmosphere, buying in bulk, and putting your haggling skills to the test. Another option is the Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan, which is a more conducive shopping place yet remains popular for bargaining.

EXPERIENCE MANILA

Makati & BGC

Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are two of Metro Manila’s premier business districts, known for their modern skylines, multinational corporate offices, and upscale lifestyle offerings.

Makati, the older of the two, has long been considered the financial capital of the Philippines, home to the Philippine Stock Exchange and numerous banking headquarters, while BGC in Taguig City has emerged as a newer, meticulously planned urban center with wide pedestrian-friendly streets and a vibrant mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment establishments.

Both districts attract young professionals, expatriates, and affluent Filipinos with their high-end shopping malls, international dining scenes, luxury condominiums, and thriving nightlife.

EXPERIENCE MAKATI & BGC