Philippines is an affordable Southeast Asian archipelago of 7,600+ islands known for their breathtaking white sand tropical beaches, pristine waters and friendly English-speaking locals. This destination offers a holiday for most budgets and a laid-back lifestyle perfect for island getaways. If you are into diving or snorkelling Philippines features world-class diving in Palawan. In complete contrast is their capital and gateway Manila. Established by the Spanish 300 years ago, this bustling city is good for a stopover with its shopping arcades, markets, Chinatown and historic old town.
Hotels are reasonably priced and of good western standards. Day tours can be organised on a private or a shared basis. Qantas flies from Australia to Manila – connections via Brisbane or Sydney with domestic same day connections from other cities. Packages can be created on a bespoke basis or done as a small group tour. This multi-island nation is still an affordable destination with lots of variety and options.
The Philippine islands offer many different holiday destinations from the iconic Chocolate Hills in Bohol and the ancient Banaue Rice Terraces to the dramatic limestone cliffs of El Nido and the underground rivers near Coron. Boracay is known for its powder-like white sand beaches and nightlife and Cebu is also great for beaches, diving and the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks. Beaches are clean, locals are environmentally aware and the water is crystal clear. Happy Hours offer great value cocktails, massages and spa treatments are well priced allowing you enjoy being spoilt whilst on holidays.
For more adventurous holidaymakers that want to experience Philippines beyond lounging, travellers can also enjoy thrilling activities such as diving with whale sharks and other marine life in Cebu, snorkelling in the sardine run, surfing in Siargao and jumping off the top of waterfalls at Kawasan Falls. Philippines has many premier diving spots, offering opportunities to see sea turtles, vibrant reefs and shipwrecks.
Filipinos are renowned for their friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and English is widely spoken. Airports and hotels are well staffed. There is always a person close by able to assist you. Ride share options (similar to Uber) are easy to access, clean, well-priced and offer modern air-conditioned vehicles if you don’t fancy the more traditional transport options of jeepneys or tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars). Security is provided and visible at hotels, shopping centres and local restaurant areas.
If you want to know more about the Philippines,
speak to Kymberly from our office, who has just returned from Easter in the Philippines.
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