Travel in the Philippines
What this country really is, is the ultimate water park and the ones who enjoy it most, are the ones who come to play.
The Philippines was my last major trip before the Pandemic and I couldn’t be happier that I welcomed 2020 there. My time there was really the tipping point which changed my travel mindset and goals. Social media taught me to be a traveller that values instagrammable spots and foods. The Philippines taught me to be a traveller who pushes my physical limits, overcome my fear and explore the underwater world, and put experiences above attractions. After my time here, I also became more determined to be a sustainable traveller, to be supportive of locals, and to be open to the unique cultures and peoples of a country. This country, its culture, its people, and its nature are my favourite in the world.
I will add that the Philippines was also the hardest trip to plan of all the East Asian countries I have been to. Since the country is an archipelago, comprised of hundreds of islands, travel between the islands makes planning challenging. That said, this country is the ultimate water park and there is so much more to do here than the well-known island hopping and overly hyped Kawasan Falls tours.
Unlike many other East Asian countries like Indonesia or Thailand where there is an abundance of tourist attractions, shopping, and photo spots, the Philippines is different. This country is for the doer. If you are active and love activities like hiking up cliffs, surfing, parasailing, snorkelling, and scuba diving, the Philippines in the destination for you.
This is not to say that the Philippines still doesn’t cater to more relaxed or resort loving travellers, it’s just that these types of may not take advantage of what this country has to offer.
Though I stretched myself thin by covering 3 islands, 4 areas, and over 10 activities, I have no regrets. I just wish I’d had time to do and see more. In the future, I plan to revisit Coron Island just to spend more time snorkelling their amazing underwaters and Moalboal to get my scuba diving certification. Not to mention, hit up El-Nido because I wasn’t able to visit the Art Cafe and take their various water sport lessons. So much to do, too little time.
Philippines Blog Posts
Planning for the Philippines isn’t for the fair hearted. There is a lot to consider, especially when it comes to transportation. These blogs outline some best practices and activities.
