Falling in love with travel and photography came naturally to me. After crisscrossing my island home country of the Philippines and traveling to it’s farthest corners, highest mountains and most remote islands, who wouldn’t be in love?
Unbelievably clear waters surround thousands of deserted white islands, and they all welcome you as you hop off the boat. The Philippines, while lagging behind Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia in tourist arrivals, provides rich beauty and exciting exploration opportunities for the few travelers who stray from the famous South East Asia ‘banana pancake trail’. Travelers in the Philippines can’t help but extend their stay, and some never leave. The Philippines becomes home.
Here are eight reasons why you should visit us here in The Philippines in 2016.
The Rock Formations
Stunning rock formations litter the Philippines’ coastline, formed over thousands of years by the relentless waves of the furious Philippine Sea. This rock formation from Biri Island is one of five gigantic natural attractions surrounded by natural pools with crystal clear waters and soft hills, perfect for camping.
Biri Island © Nomadic Experiences
The Islands
You could spend a lifetime island-hopping in the Philippines, and you’d still never see them all. Off-the-grid islands, such as Calaguas Island, tempt travelers and locals alike. Walk along blindingly white, clean sand and listen to the hissing of the waves.
Calaguas Island, Daet Camarines Norte © Nomadic Experiences
White Island, Camiguin © Nomadic Experiences
Palawan
More than 1700 islands and islets surround the island province of Palawan. The province is renowned as one of the best island destinations in the world and is blanketed in virgin forest and dramatic mountain chains. Adventurous travelers will discover limestone caves, hot springs, majestic lakes and white, sandy beaches. A full-range of activities from mountain climbing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and beach bumming awaits.
View from the way to Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan © Nomadic Experiences
Grab a beer and enjoy the isolated Nacpan Beach in El Nido, Palawan © Nomadic Experiences
The Highlands
When you’ve had enough beaches and are tired of the island life, you can cool off in the highlands. Snaking mountain ranges offer views of the lush forests teeming with wildlife, volcanoes, waterfalls, lakes and rolling hills as far as the eyes can see.
in the northernmost part of the Philippines, the rolling hills of Batanes presents a never-ending beautiful scenery © Nomadic Experiences
Tinuy-an Waterfalls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur © Nomadic Experiences
Tinago Falls in Iligan Province © Nomadic Experiences
Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, Albay is known for its almost perfect cone-shaped peak © Nomadic Experiences
Mount Pinatubo crater lake in the southern part of Luzon is a popular hiking destination © Nomadic Experiences
The Charming Towns and Local Delicacies
If you travel across the Philippines, you’ll pass through countless charming towns, offering a glimpse of the simple life in the countrysides and the legendary hospitality of the Filipino people. Indulge in the many colorful traditions and cultures by immersing yourself in local life. Sample home-cooked delicacies and party at the numerous festivals celebrated throughout the country all year long.
The ‘Dinagyang Festival‘ is celebrated in Iloilo City every January © Nomadic Experiences
Visit Philippines Again © Nomadic Experiences
The People
The Filipino people are known to be among the most hospitable bunch in the world. With a smile on their faces ready to greet you “Mabuhay” (long live), you will never feel out of place in the many islands all over this archipelago. Each encounter will surely make your trip more memorable. As you trudge along the many regions in the country, you will live out a different travel experience thanks to the many people, languages, set of cultures and traditions and local cuisines that will surely satisfy all your senses.
‘Sinulog’ Festival celebrated every January in Cebu City is highlighted by its fun street parties at night © Nomadic Experiences
The Marine Life
The Philippines is a marine biodiversity hotspot, making it a favorite destination for keen SCUBA divers – don’t forget your underwater camera!
Nagsasa Cove in Zambales is just one of the hundreds of white sand beaches where you can pitch your tent and camp © Nomadic Experiences
Sunset and Sunrise
End your day by appreciating the splendor of your surroundings, highlighted by the stunning backdrop of the rising and setting sun. Watch the sunset from afar while drinking an ice cold beer in the many paradise-like settings of the Philippines.
Grab a beer and toast the heavens for the good life traveling around the Philippines © Nomadic Experiences
Visit the Philippines and see it for yourself. Be ready to extend your stay, most travelers find it hard to leave.
7 comments
The Philippines is like an undiscovered jewel in Asia that for those who already have find themselves wanting to make it their best kept travel destination secret.
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