Top places to visit in the Philippines
The Philippines is emerging as one of the growing popular destinations in Asia. And it’s not hard to see why!
Still largely undiscovered, the stunning archipelago offers travellers the unforgettable opportunity to discover an array of tropical islands, award-winning beaches, world renowned dive sites, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and an abundance of local wildlife.
Norjamin Delos Reyes, Tourism Attaché at Philippine Department of Tourism Australia and New Zealand said:
“The Philippines is a fantastic destination catering to a diverse range of travellers, including adventure lovers, backpackers, honeymooners… the list goes on! It’s a destination that has something for everyone.”
“Our islands and beaches provide the perfect spot to relax and discover our tropical archipelago. If an adventure holiday is of interest, we deliver some of the world’s best surf spots and dive sites, plus mountains and nature parks which are perfect for trekking.
“With the Philippines located only eight hours away from the east coast of Australia it is an ideal getaway destination.”
Top 10 must-see destinations
- Boracay was officially named ‘Best Island in the World’ by Conde Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2016. Boracay was named the 15th and 12th ‘Best Island in the World’ by Conde Nast Travellers Readers’ Choice Awards 2015 and 2014 respectively. Visitors get to witness the beautiful white sand beaches, dazzling blue water and iconic sunsets.
- Manila mixes the capital’s historic Spanish influence with new urban developments. Travellers can choose to stay at the brand new Okada Manila resort, complete with 993 luxury suites and villas. The oceanfront resort is set on 44 hectares and features over 21 dining options, world class entertainment including a club, shopping facilities and a casino.
- Vigan is one of the oldest towns in the Philippines. The town was established in the 16th century and authentically preserves a Spanish colonial town in Asia. Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and reflects the fusion of Asian and Spanish architecture, creating a unique culture and townscape.
- Lipa City is the largest city in the province of Batangas. A popular destination in Lipa City is the Farm at San Benito, which promotes wellness and detoxification through a holistic approach. Guests can choose a program that best suits their needs including healthy meals, spa treatments and exercise options. The Farm provides guests with exceptional service and private villas.
- Rice Paddies of the Philippine Cordilleras is a system of rice terraces carved into the Cordillera Mountains located in Luzon. Built over 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao tribe, the rice paddies are a UNESCO World Heritage ‘cultural’ site.
- The Chocolate Hills are located in Bohol. This collection of approximately 1,776 hills turn a rich chocolate brown colour in the dry season. Otherwise the hills are various shades of green. The best time to view this scenic landscape is in April and May.
- Mount Pinatubo is a well-known volcano in the Philippines. Travellers can trek or drive to the crater (turned lake) for a rewarding view, and then relax with a spa treatment using volcanic ash at Pinatubo Spa Town.
- Palawan is an area made up of over 2000 islands, world renowned for its spectacular beaches. Located in the west of the province is the lesser known attraction of Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park, an area spanning over 22 hectares, featuring limestone landscapes and an underground river which emerges directly into the sea. Consisting of a ‘mountain to sea’ ecosystem, the park is also a significant habitat for biodiversity. Palawan has an array of luxurious resorts across its island network, where guests can choose to stay at including Ariara Resort, a private luxury island located in the northern Calamian Islands and Huma Island Resort & Spa a spectacular hideaway nestled in Busuanga, also in the north.
- Coron, also located in the Palawan islands has multiple attractions for travellers to enjoy. Highlights include: island hopping; exploring shipwrecks from iconic dive spots; swimming and snorkelling through lakes and lagoons; relaxing in hot springs; swimming with baby sharks and octopus in the marine sanctuary; and enjoying an African style safari in a huge game preserve.
- Tiaong is a tranquil municipality in Quezon. At the Villa Escudero, a former coconut plantation guests can enjoy a unique dining experience at the Labasin Waterfalls Restaurant, guests use stepping stones to get to the bamboo tables and dine on Filipino cuisine while water cascades down the wall and under diner’s feet.
Latest News
Australia fails to make top 10 destination list for American travellers
Australia's top cities have failed to make the grade with American travellers this northern summer, with no local city in the top.
APT Launches 2025 Asia Adventures
APT has launched its Asia Adventures for 2025, including new luxury holidays in India, Sri Lanka and Japan. Five new tours lead guests to the highlights of India, including a seven-night cruise along the rarely travelled Lower Ganges aboard the Ganges Voyager. Further south, Sri Lanka’s greatest destinations are revealed on a new 15-day Land […]
ANZAC Battlefield travel on the 2025 bucketlist
As Anzac Day dawns, agents prepare for a surge in bookings for the 110th anniversary of the Anzac Cove landings.
Former Channel 9 Getaway host and founder of TRIBE Jules Lund to speak at Travel DAZE
From blond-tipped travel reporter to Travel DAZE speaker, Jules Lund cuts through the BS.
HX’s Roald Amundsen finds aliens in the Antarctic
Forget whales, HX's MS Roald Amundsen captures aliens in the Antarctic - and they're not pretty.
Mayhem in France as 70% of flights face cancellation
I mean it wouldn't be France if there wasn't at least one strike.
Etihad Airways launches double-decker service with world’s only in-air three-room suite
We imagine falling asleep in the three-room suite is superior to falling asleep on your neighbour's shoulder.
Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe travel season
Europe certainly has a lot of ports. Its time for Australia to up its game.
“The power of travel for positive change” – Intrepid’s Jenny Gray hails controversial all-women Saudi Arabia trip
There is an awful lot to love about this tour from Intrepid. Where do we sign up?
Princess names the Sun, unveils Sanctuary Collection + Star Princess to Alaska in ’26
A huge bottle of Veuve was smashed into the side of the ship to make things official. So no, we couldn't snag a glass.
Collette special offers across peak northern summer season
If you are craving a trip to Europe then grab this deal with both of your grubby hands.
Air India and All Nippon codeshare between the two countries
Here at TW we agreed that the photo would have worked better if they had swapped planes.
A&K offers minimum 18 weeks paid parental leave
Contrary to what the photo suggests this benefit is only applicable for humans. Back to work Mrs Jumbo.
NH Hotel Group rebrands as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Hang around the bends of the hotels. We imagine they will be full of a lot of branded content.
Scenic Eclipse II – the business of creating unforgettable life-changing memories
These cruise brothers from another mother offer a view of cruising on Scenic Eclipse II that is poles apart.
MSC builds new hospital ship with Mercy Ships
If you want to read a story that puts a smile on your face then this is the one for you.
“I peed on myself watching this” – Social media users squirm at Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of The Seas 55ft dive video
TW is not responsible for any involuntary actions your body might have after watching this video.
FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner business class
The real bonus is you're unlikely to be around screaming children. Hoorah!
Traveltek offers travel agents new rapid deploy cruise website
As always, if you have any issue with the platform, just turn it off and on again.
Experience whale watching & classical music at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville
Disappointedly, the whales do not start singing in tune with the orchestra. Opportunity missed.
Fond, very Fond. London hotel famed for James Bond link adds ‘Classic Comforts’ lunch menu
James Bond author Ian Fleming was so fond if this hotel, it inspired the legendary phrase ‘shaken, not stirred’.
What sets Eclipse Travel apart with Africa expert Hilary Dubyk: Travel Weekly TV
If you want to know more about Africa, then Hilary Dubyk is your person.
Surge in Australians visiting Japan
Feel like all of your friends have just returned from Europe? Now it's Japan.
Seabourn announces Western Kimberley Traditional Owners as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn has named Western Kimberley Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of the ultra-luxury purpose-built Seabourn Pursuit. It is the first cruise line to appoint Traditional Owners as godparents of a ship. Seabourn Pursuit embarks on its inaugural season in the Kimberley region this June. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s […]
Sydney named 17th best place to work remotely
If you struggle to get a seat within Sydney's coffee shops, you now know why.
W Melbourne grows sales team
We appreciate the thought that has gone into this team photo.
Cunard welcomes new ship Queen Anne
This might be the most impressive ship handover in ship handover history.
Intrepid Travel appoints Yvette Thompson as general manager sales & marketing ANZ
It isn't end-of-day Monday and Yvette Thompson has already nabbed herself an impressive promotion.
Anna Fawcett re-joins Global Touring in newly-created APAC role
With such an impressive CV, Global Touring is no doubt thrilled to have Fawcett back.
“We know our response has been far from perfect” – Emirates’ open letter following Dubai flooding
If you also need to write an apology letter, then this is a pretty good template.
Malolo Island Resort opens brand new Spa
Fiji’s Malolo Island has added another string to its bow – opening its $1.3 million day spa on Thursday, 18th April 2024. (Lead Image: matriarch Rosie Whitton with spa staff) Located at the edge of the resort’s luscious patch of tropical rainforest, the new “Leilani’s Spa” adds another level of elevated experiences to Malolo’s already […]
Virgin Australia’s HILARIOUS second instalment of the ‘Bring on Wonderful’ campaign
We don't use the word 'hilarious' lightly, but this is worthy of the title.
Visit Sunshine Coast reveals new brand identity
If you were looking for another reason to visit the Sunshine Coast then this is it.
Sofitel launches brand campaign starring Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson
We can confirm the content of this video is less spicy than Sex Education.
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!
Great, thanks for the tips! Indeed, Philippines is a beautiful archipelago of islands of adventures and getaways. Unfortunately, many suffer from poverty and this goes some way in explaining the huge number of tourist targeted scams and safety concerns in the country. http://travelscams.org/asia/common-tourist-scams-philippines/
Do be wary of the Ativan gang/family scam, familiar face scam, sob story scam, the bump and drop, paedophile scam, cards/poker/blackjack scam, beggars, fake goods, pickpockets, fake travel agents, bullet in bag scam, airline desk overweight luggage, immigration officer bribe, taxi spray scam and many more!
Good thing they did not mentioned Secret of Caramoan and Siargao