Tropical weather, warm, sunny beaches, exciting locations and lots of fun and adventure await you in the Philippines. Add to those enticements the low cost of lodging and food—oh, the food!–and few people can resist the temptation to return time and again!
Lodging
While some areas in is island country are tourist traps with higher prices than others, even the most luxurious accommodations in the capital of Manila costs roughly half or less what you’d pay in other countries—even in the US! For about $150, you can rest very comfortably in a room that would cost $500 or more in Chicago or New York City, for example!
For just pennies on the dollar in the outlying areas everywhere in this island paradise, you can enjoy more rustic comfort, but don’t mistake inexpensive for “cheap.” You still enjoy a soft bed and sturdy furniture; the lodging just may not offer bellhop services. For the backpacker or casual tourist, that’s usually not a problem at all!
Food
How loudly can we type “Good but cheap” and get away with it? That many? Okay—done! For food that will make your taste buds dance with joy and your eyes weep from overwhelming appreciation, you can spend less than $15 per person. Forget the $100 wine list and the $250 pork loin. For a fraction of the cost, experience authentic Philippine cuisine and even US favorites in many areas, and save your money for souvenirs!
Sights to See
A comprehensive list of all this country has to offer would take a fair portion of the Internet’s total bandwidth, but only a few of the many highlights might include such sights and geographic areas as
1. Corregidor: This tiny island on the outer edge of Manila Bay was the last stronghold to fall to the Japanese in World War II. Today, it’s notorious tunnels that once housed arsenals and hospitals are now home to museums that are well worth the day trip to see. Explore this hideaway that is in plain sight and enjoy the history as well as the breeze and the sunshine.
2. Bicol: This southern spot in the South Luzon region is oft-overlooked by visitors, which is a boon for those visitors savvy and well-informed enough to venture to it. Take a stroll or a hike through this lush haven known for its volcanic peaks. Pause and look out over some of the bluest water you can imagine. It almost seems a moment away, doesn’t it? Board a boat for a water tour and photograph the white sharks that inhabit the area: You won’t see many of those in zoos “stateside,” eh?
3. Batangas: Clear, warm water surrounds you as you indulge in one of the area’s delights—scuba diving. The brilliantly colored coral reefs are home to such exotic fish and marine life that the imagination just soars when contemplating it. Bring your underwater camera to catch the marvels on film, for those at home may not quite believe you if you simply describe what you experienced!
Wherever you go in the Philippines, whatever you choose to do, make plans and promises to yourself to return soon, and expand your tropical horizons even more next time!
The author of this article is Holly Miller, who writes for CouponCroc.co.uk, the best resource for savings on all of your travel plans when you book online.
{ 0 comments }
