A 20-hour flight to an extremely hospitable population, a country that’s affordable and still not very touristy, sumptuous landscapes, traditions that are unique in the world, heavenly beaches and a tropical climate all year round …. In short, it’s worth it! Here’s where to go to make the most of your stay in the Philippines.
1 – Intramuros in Manila
The city has little tourist interest, except for its oldest district: Intramuros. Here you can admire the superb San Augustin church built in 1571, which survived natural disasters and numerous bombardments during the Second World War.
48km from Manila, the former American base known as Corregidor is also worth a visit. Here you can see ancient fortifications, cannons and barracks.
2 – Boracay
It’s one of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations. The reason is simple: it’s home to some of Asia’s most beautiful beaches, such as Ariel Point. If you like beach parties, you’ve come to the right place, as it’s also the St Tropez of the Philippines.
3 – Mount Mayon
Located on the island of Lucon, it is the country’s most active volcano. Many disasters have happened, but it’s still a must-see.
4 – El Nido
White sandy beaches, clear blue lagoons, it’s the tropical paradise of the Philippines.
5 – Banaue’s rice terraces
In other words, the eighth wonder of the world. A hike through these 2,000 to 6,000-year-old rice paddies, built into the mountains, offers superb scenery.
6 – Vigan
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a perfect example of a Spanish colonial town in Asia. It’s known for its cobbled streets and unique architecture, a cross between Spain and Asia.
7 – Incredible dives (whale sharks, turtles, etc.)
Oslob and Donsol
These are the two places where you can spot and swim alongside the great whale sharks, which are attracted by the food. The best time to see them is between February and April.
Apo Reef
This is the largest coral reef in the Philippines. Diving in this marine reserve will enable you to observe exceptional marine fauna (sharks, turtles…) as well as magnificent coral.
Puerto Galera
Renowned for its many diving spots that are easy to access. There’s something for everyone, and if you’re not diving, the surrounding area is great for exploring, especially the sublime waterfalls.
Tubbataha Reef
Located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, this protected marine park is quite difficult to access (expensive and accessible from mid-March to mid-June). It is one of the world’s top 10 diving spots, thanks to its high biodiversity.
8 – The island of Bohol
Bohol offers many attractions, not least the Chocolate Hills, which are cone-shaped hills 30 to 50 metres high. You can also see Tarsiers (a small primate with huge eyes). It’s quite a touristy area, with many resorts, bars and restaurants along the beach. Here you can enjoy a glass of fruit juice as the sun sets, or go snorkeling…
9 – Batanes
An archipelago of ten islands located at the northern tip of the country and offering magnificent, very green landscapes, it’s quite different from the rest of the Philippines.
