Metro Manila was not enough, clearly. After a thorough treatment not long ago of ten must-see attractions in the vast National Capital Region of the Philippines, it soon became apparent that another article was in order.
Think about it. Over 92 million people, with 11 million overseas. Well over 7,000 islands. The Philippines is a formidable country indeed, with so much on tap beyond Manila. So without further ado, here are several more superb destinations to consider in the Southeast Asian Republic.
Many of the most popular places to visit in the Philippines are on the island of Luzon. Home to Metro Manila, the island is the largest, most populated and most important in economic and political terms. With over 300,000 people, Baguio is a major city that draws scores of tourists because of a mild climate, vibrant festival scene and fine landmarks.
A province in southwestern Luzon, Batangas has a beautiful stretch of coast on the South China Sea, with a vast array of resorts, public and private beach clubs. Popular with Filipinos and knowledgeable tourists alike, the province is a great place to soak up local culture, products, arts and crafts.
A lovely island province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, Bohol has a population of over 1.2 million people. The capital and main hub is Tagbilaran City, although most tourists rush to the coast. Bohol has a coastline of over 250 km and a little gem in the small island of Panglao. The main reason most visitors head inland? The Chocolate Hills, a potential new UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Perhaps the most popular and sought-after destination in all of the Philippines, with the possible exception of Metro Manila, Boracay has a reputation as a world class beach resort. Some 300 km south of the National Capital Region, the island is indeed idyllic. Beware however, if you prefer your beach resort on the quiet side. Boracay gets extremely busy, especially from September to June.
The de facto Second City of the Philippines, Cebu City is a major metropolitan region that totals over 2 million people. That of course, includes other destinations in the Mindanao region of the Visayas, like Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue and Talisay. As the first Spanish settlement in the nation, Cebu has many inherent attractions. Magellan’s Cross is the most famous and a vital national symbol.
The main commercial hub on the island of Mindanao, Davao is a lively, independent city with over 1.2 million people. The main attraction, aside from several superb museums and monuments, is 2,954 m high Mount Apo and a plethora of beach resorts on the Davao Gulf coast.
Easily one of the most unusual UNESCO World Heritage Sites on record, the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras are known by many Filipinos as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. With some as old as 6,000 years old, the terraces defy description and stretch over four scenic provinces. Head to Ifugao to visit the supreme national treasure.
The capital Iloilo province in the Western Visayas offers some of the best attractions in the Philippines. From colonial cathedrals and estates to traditional festivals and events, Iloilo City is worth a tour. The nearby Jintotolo Channel coast is exquisite.
Laguna province is accessible by car from Metro Manila and is definitely worth a day trip. Natural scenery is the main draw here, with gems such as Pagsanjan Falls, Los Banos thermal springs, Mount Makiling and Seven Lakes of San Pablo.
The 3.5 hour trip from Manila to Puerto Galera, by bus and ferry, is well worth the hassle. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and foremost member of The Most Beautiful Bays of the World club, the coastal town offers white sand, water sports and biodiversity to intrepid visitors.
A popular stop on the way from Manila to Batangas, Tagaytay deserves a special trip. With views over Manila Bay, Lake Taal and volcano and Laguna Bay, the hilly and verdant area offers a cool, scenic summer escape. Make a lunch reservation at Antonio’s.
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