10 Reasons Why You Should Travel To The Philippines

6. Food?

While Filipino cuisine might not be as globally renowned as its Asian counterparts, the unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Spanish, Japanese, and American influences creates a gastronomic experience unlike any other.

Filipinos take pride in their cuisine, a fusion of flavors that has successfully carved its own niche in the culinary scene. Among the notable dishes is the iconic adobo, featuring chicken or pork cooked in a delectable blend of soy sauce and vinegar. The lechon, a succulent roasted whole pig, earned the acclaim of the late Anthony Bourdain as the best pig he ever tasted.

For the adventurous palate, balut, a Filipino street food consisting of a boiled duck embryo, offers a unique and exotic taste. Meanwhile, the popular halo-halo, a refreshing summer delight, combines crushed ice, milk, and sweetened fruits, making it a must-try dessert best enjoyed shared.

Embrace the Filipino spirit with calamansi juice, a citrusy delight, and explore the inventive banana ketchup—a testament to the abundance of bananas in the Philippines. From the hearty pancit noodles with veggies and meat to the flavorful sinigang, a tamarind-based sour soup, the culinary journey in the Philippines is diverse and enticing.

If seafood is your weakness, indulge in the bounty of fresh options, from lobster to crabs, tiger prawns, and octopus, all at remarkably affordable prices. And fear not, if you crave international flavors, cities like Manila, Cebu, and Boracay boast an array of dining options, from Thai and sushi to Indian, pizza, pasta, burgers, and the comforting familiarity of German bakeries. The Philippines invites you to savor a tapestry of tastes that mirrors its vibrant cultural tapestry.

7. The Philippines is Budget Friendly Destination

The Philippines as a budget-friendly destination, where your travel expenses won’t break the bank. With day tours priced around PHP1000 (USD20), you can explore the wonders of the Philippines without denting your wallet. Accommodation options cater to every budget, from affordable dorm-type hostels to charming bed-and-breakfast homestays, while resorts offer a range of pricing, often featuring enticing package deals for savvy travelers. Planning a Philippines staycation? The options abound.

You can indulge in the culinary delights of the Philippines without burning a hole in your pocket. A budget of around PHP100-150 (EUR 2-3) will secure you a hearty breakfast with classic Filipino fare and coffee, extending to satisfying lunch and dinner options. Services like spa treatments, haircuts, massages, and fine dining are surprisingly affordable, even at top wellness resorts in the country. Incorporate these into your itinerary for an extra touch of luxury.

Alcohol prices are a pleasant surprise. Rum enthusiasts, rejoice, as a Rhum with juice might cost less than the juice itself. Don’t miss the chance to try the renowned Red Horse beer, stronger than regular beer, and famously economical at just 20 pesos for a 0.5l bottle in the supermarket. Delve into the world of Tanduay Rhum, a steal at 1 EUR, or opt for the delightful Boracay Coconut Rum, a mere 90 Pesos for a 0.7l bottle. Revel in the affordability of libations and make your trip to the Philippines a celebration of both experiences and savings.

8. Massages

Indulge in the exquisite world of massages during your Philippines adventure, where pampering your body becomes one of the most rewarding experiences. Throughout the country, a plethora of massage establishments and spas await, ranging from luxurious retreats to beachside practitioners, ensuring you can unwind almost anywhere.

The diverse offerings from high-end spas that epitomize luxury to the simple charm of beachside massage ladies, and discover the unique flavors of wellness that each location offers. Among the myriad options, a Swedish massage stands out, beckoning you to experience a full-body treatment enhanced by the soothing touch of aromatic oils.

9. No Language Barrier

You can xperience the convenience of a seamless linguistic journey in the Philippines, where the absence of a language barrier becomes a notable feature of your travels. Surpassing 90%, the majority of the population is proficient in English, setting the Philippines apart from many other Asian destinations.

This linguistic proficiency extends across all age groups, from articulate 3-year-olds to wise 90-year-old grandmothers, providing you with unparalleled ease in communication throughout your journey. English not only serves as the universal language of the people but also holds prominence in government affairs and written communication, shaping the educational and business landscape.

10. Jeepney Rides in the Philippines

A genuine Filipino adventure is not complete without the iconic jeepney rides which are an integral part of local transportation. As soon as you land in Philippine airports, these vibrant vehicles adorn the streets of Manila and other bustling centers across the country. Known simply as jeepneys or jeeps, they represent a distinctive form of public transport, offering an affordable fare.

Many travelers consider a jeepney ride a must-do experience in the Philippines for its immersive touch of local culture. Why? Because it’s not just practical; it’s enjoyable, economical, and delightfully breezy – no air conditioner required!

Adorned in lively colours and displaying their routes prominently, jeepneys are easy to spot. Familiarize yourself with essential local phrases like “para” (stop) and “bayad po” (here’s my payment) for a smooth jeepney journey. The Filipino spirit of helpfulness is evident, with passengers aiding each other in passing payments to the driver, especially if you’re seated near the door.

Adding to the unique transportation mix is the tricycle, the Philippine equivalent of a motorized rickshaw, resembling Thailand’s tuk-tuk but with a motorbike and attached sidecar. There’s also the pedal-powered version known as the pedicab, ideal for short distances in provinces with narrow roads and fewer jeepneys.