The Philippines are known around the world for its charming beaches and every year many foreign tourists are drawn here. Not every one of us had a chance to get to know the most beautiful corners of our country. Why not go and explore the native islands? Today we will look into the best affordable places in the Philippines.
Charming volcanos – great if you seek active recreation
If you feel enthusiastic about captivating views and active recreation, then you will be definitely satisfied with hiking across volcanoes. South of Manila is a Taal volcano, situated in the middle of the lake with the same name. Though it is small, it is impressive. In its crater there is another lake with an island. It is possible to stand on the volcanoes’ edge and peer into the crater, but first you need to get there by boat. North of Manila there is a Pinatubo volcano, which you can also climb on. At its feet there is a SPA resort. Worth mentioning is also a mountain town Sagada with its picturesque views, waterfalls and caves. There is a peculiar tradition of hanging… coffins on the rock faces.
Many Filipinos would be impressed with Kanloan volcano, which is almost perfectly cone-shaped, and situated on Negros island. The bravest ones can decide to set off for a three-day trekking to its peak. The highest peak of the Philippines is Mount Apo, with its height of 2954 m a. s. l., situated on Mindanao island. It is one of the most popular peaks for trekking.
Recreation on a picturesque beach
Many of the Philippine islands will thrill divers and surfers. Siargao is a perfect place for some leisure time – blue water, high waves and beautiful coral reefs which will encourage you to submerge in its waters. Panglao is a perfect place for practicing island shopping – this island is famous for its splendid beaches and coral reefs. In the vicinity of Panglao there are another two islands: Siquijor and Apo – the latter is great for exploring underwater world. Permanently imprinted in the Philippine landscape are Coron island and Kayangan Lake – which is said to be the cleanest lake in the Philippines. We highly recommend it, it is worth spending here at least a weekend. Markets tempt with variety of colours and aromas, you can buy here fresh meat, fish and seafood, which can be prepared on… a boat equipped with a grill. You can swim, and meanwhile enjoy delicious meals prepared by yourself and admire Twin Lagoon, Coron Bay, Kayangan Lake. One of the best known attractions here is diving among beautiful coral reefs and Japanese shipwrecks from World War II.
On the west there is a Palawan island, a true paradise on earth. It acquired the title of “the best island in the world”, awarded in the middle of October 2014 by the readers of a prestigious magazine „Condé Nast Traveler”. One of the best diving places is marine reserve Tubbattaha Reefs, entered into the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List, which is available for tourists only from the middle of March to the middle of June.
It is also worth admiring one of the most beautiful beaches in the world on Boracay island. Even though it is extremely popular with tourists, and is not considered as cheap, each Filipino should get to know it. Soft sand, crystal clear water and the blue sky are a landmark of this island. While you are here, you should spoil yourself with a taste of fresh seafood, shakes, or just indulge in water sports. Boracay is a place which foreigners envy us.
Other wonders of nature
On the north you should visit Hundred Islands National Park, full of fine Spanish architecture colonial town Vigan, Pagudpud – a perfect place for surfers, and Batanes archipelago, with its captivating emerald hills and high cliffs – just like in Ireland.
Nature lovers should not miss another two places – Pagsanjan Falls, which is a 120-meter waterfall. The river on the top was captured in the film “Apocalypse now”. Children will be thrilled with a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary – a forest nature reserve, famous for preserving an endangered species of cute little monkeys, which can fit in a human hand – they are called tarsiers.
Embark on a journey!
The Philippines are without a doubt a beautiful and diversified country, with a rich and unique tourist offer. Now it is a right time to embark on a journey to admire picturesque landscape and become charmed with numerous islands. Surprise your family and take your closest ones on the journey to see the most beautiful Filipino islands. Even though the places we presented are not very expensive, you may ask yourself if you can afford to cover travel costs. You do not have funds for such a journey? It does not matter. You can use help of trusted loan companies, which offer you prompt cash and will not surprise you with hidden costs. Remember, that at the end of your life you will reflect on what you have seen and experienced with your family, and material things will be forgotten. The time spent together is priceless.
