Island Wonders: Exploring the Philippines Through Our Online Guide
Philippines offer travelers a host of incredible experiences ranging from luxurious beach resorts and jungle biomes philippinesguides.com, to bucket list spots like Coron National Zoo.
HOW TO MOVE: American-style jeeps offer the primary form of urban transport, and you may even opt to hop aboard one for an exciting tour across multiple cities.
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Best Time to Visit
Early spring (March-April) is the ideal time to visit the Philippines, when temperatures are hot but not oppressive. Beach conditions remain ideal, while water temperatures allow for swimming and scuba diving activities. Island-hopping becomes much easier thanks to cool ocean breezes sweeping in from far off shore islands like Boracay or El Nido; however this peak season also marks prices and crowd levels at their highest. Typhoon season could disrupt travel plans so make sure to book accommodation well in advance!
From May to June, temperatures soar and humidity levels climb rapidly, creating unfavorable conditions for beach vacationers who wish to walk on foot and navigate rough seas. But if you want to witness Banaue rice terraces at their greenest, now is the perfect time.
Typhoons typically reach their peak between September and October, before beginning to subside by November. Rains become less torrential than they had been during summer, transport links become reliable again, hiking can become enjoyable again and bargains for hotels and flights become available.
Philippines celebrations and festivals are in full swing this festive season, from Ati-Atihan and Sinulog parades and dancing in the streets, to hotel accommodation being booked early due to rising prices and Christmas songs filling shops, as well as fireworks displays taking place all across the island nation. If you plan to join in any festivities it is wise to book in advance and expect price increases as these festivals can draw crowds of visitors eager to witness these spectacles first hand!
Things to Do in Manila
Though many visitors bypass Manila to head straight for its tropical islands, this bustling metropolis deserves at least some exploration. Manila’s history and culture can be experienced at key attractions while restaurants, bars, and world-class shopping make for an engaging visit – or longer stay.
Manila’s historical district, Intramuros (Walled City), gives a fascinating glimpse of Philippine’ Spanish colonial past with century-old structures and cobblestone streets. Join Old Manila Walks on guided tour or simply discover it on foot or with horse carriage Spanish style (kalesa).
The National Museum Complex features Filipino treasures relating to art, history and anthropology. Featuring collections by acclaimed Filipino painter Juan Luna such as Spoliarium; as well as important items from colonial periods that date back to when many Filipinos lived under colonialism.
Binondo, America’s oldest Chinatown, boasts numerous bustling markets. Shops and eateries here feature goldsmiths, bakeries, incense sticks, and tea houses; along with cozy offerings like goldsmithing services and bakeries.
Visit Manila is an effective way to experience its vibrant diversity, while providing family-friendly activities as well. Attractions include the Manila Zoo with exotic creatures and its aquarium that features a floor-to-ceiling underwater wall; Ocean Park hosts regular aquatic performances; while nightspots often host live bands playing note-perfect covers of any song you could possibly imagine! Karaoke bars can also be found throughout most neighborhoods.
Things to Do in Cebu
Cebu Island provides active vacationers with snorkeling or hiking to waterfalls, while relaxation seekers will find beautiful beach spots sipping fresh coconuts to be ideal. At its northern tip is Cebu City with an old world charm worthy of exploration; start by visiting Magellan’s Cross where Magellan first introduced Christianity to native people in 1521 when he visited this island.
One of the top activities in Cebu is Osmena Peak hike, offering stunning mountain views. While this may initially appear daunting, it isn’t nearly as difficult as you may think; motorbike rentals (known as habal habals in the Philippines) can take nearly all the way up the mountain for as little as $8 per day!
Basilica del Santo Nino is one of the premier attractions in Cebu and one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, housing the statue of Jesus known locally as Santo Nino (baby Jesus). Many locals believe this statue to possess miraculous powers and visit frequently to pray at this site.
Make time to visit this church daily and attend mass, or just stroll around enjoying its stunning artwork and architecture. After admiring the basilica, head over to Ayala Center Mall for refreshments and shopping!
Cebu offers many exciting activities, and one such is the Kabutongan Falls trek. This moderately difficult hike leads you through jungle and cliffs to amazing hot springs surrounded by jungle, providing opportunities to practice your cliff jumping skills. A bus from Alegria town costs less than $1 to reach the trailhead; from there it’s just a short journey before reaching waterfall where multiple cliffs offer access.
Things to Do in Bohol
Discover a captivating combination of tropical beaches and Philippine culture on Bohol, an unspoiled paradise packed with top attractions. From Chocolate Hills to Hinagdaan Cave, Bohol offers something for everyone on its shores – read on for the best things to do on Bohol so that your trip won’t soon be forgotten!
Bohol offers many exciting activities, but perhaps one of the most sought-after is taking a scenic cruise on Loboc River. A relaxing and enjoyable way to see some of Bohol’s landmarks.
For an active water experience, try diving. You’ll get to see all kinds of underwater life such as vibrant corals, large Napoleon Wrasse fish and even hammerhead sharks!
Dolphin watching tours provide another great way to spot dolphins – just be sure that the operator you book your tour with has all necessary permits and safety equipment in place.
Bohol is home to an important landmark – the Tarsier Sanctuary. These endangered primates live exclusively within this conservation area and allow visitors to see close up views of them while learning more about their lives.
Blood Compact Shrine in Bohol may not be one of the more exciting attractions, but it plays an essential part of Filipino culture. This place honors Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legaspi’s meeting that took place in 1565.
No visit to Panglao would be complete without taking advantage of Alona Beach and taking a dip in its sparkling waters at Alona Beach on Panglao – located only minutes from Tagbilaran’s capital city, making this beach less crowded than many of the others on the island.
Budget
With its rich biodiversity, the Philippines offers something to delight every traveler. From idyllic beaches to bustling cities, this country is an unforgettable travel destination that spans diverse landscapes and cultures – making it an unforgettable visit. Budgeting for your visit is key – here are a few tips that will help keep spending to within your means without going over budget!
the Philippines remains one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable countries when it comes to living costs, boasting one of the lowest single person costs of $500 per month and two family of four costs around $2,000. While food and transportation prices have recently increased slightly compared with their peers elsewhere in Asia.
Accommodation options in Manila and Makati may seem affordable at first glance, but if you’re willing to venture outside the city center and stay somewhere rural or beachside you may find more cost-effective lodgings. Furthermore, hotels typically offer lower rates during weekdays than weekends – saving both time and money!
Foodwise, Filipino cuisine draws heavily from Chinese, Malay and Spanish cultures and offers an amazing diversity. Although not the spiciest cuisine in Southeast Asia, Filipino dishes still boast great flavor thanks to the garlic onions and ginger seasoning used throughout. If budget constraints limit you further, opt for local eateries where they provide more authentic yet delectable experiences with less of your dollar being wasted!
