"Where to next?" is the most common question we always seem to ask ourselves every time we plan our future travels. Here in the Philippines, sobrang dami mong puwedeng puntahan! We've got beautiful Spanish colonial-inspired cities with cobblestone streets, beaches with super clear waters, mountains with the most breathtaking views, and more. There's just *so much* of the country we have yet to discover!
If you have plans to travel locally but are still undecided as to where you want to go, we gotchu bb! Department of Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat recently sat down for an interview with Summit Media journalists and among the many things she shared were the country's top travel destinations. From the classic choices like Boracay and El Nido, she also recommended places that are just as beautiful like Siquijor, Batanes, and The Cordilleras. Keep reading and you might just add these places to your future bucket list!
These are the top Philippine travel destinations, according to Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat:
Boracay
"Right now, the top travel destination is Boracay. It's really always Boracay," Secretary Berna said. And we totes understand why! This island is home to white sand beaches, and gorgeous hotels/resorts.
El Nido
This one's a popular by choice by international publications, too. According to Secretary Berna, "Conde Nast, Travel + Leisure, and CNN Travel always choose El Nido [as a top travel destination]." Fun fact: It was actually named as one of the best places for solo travel in 2020.
Puerto Princesa
When you visit Puerto Princesa, don't forget to check out the iconic Underground River where you'll see all kinds of caves and limestone landscapes. FYI, they're finally opening again on March 15!
Siargao
If you're into surfing, then Siargao is the perfect place for you. You can take a plane to Siargao from Manila, but if you want to go to other surfing spots by land, Secretary Berna also suggested La Union or Baler.
Cebu
Aside from its well-known Sinulog Festival and lechon, Cebu has a ton of activities for all types of travelers. You can go whale shark watching in Oslob, visit the Temple of Leah in Cebu City, or enjoy swimming by Kawasan Falls.
Bohol
If you didn't see a tarsier or visit the Chocolate Hills, then did you even go to Bohol? Kidding. The Loboc River is also a major tourist spot because it allows you to eat lunch in their floating restaurant! Here's a quick guide to the Bohol travel requirements if you plan on going anytime soon.
Siquijor
Secretary Berna mentioned that this is actually her new favorite spot. If you're into diving and healing, consider this a must-visit place! She said, "Siquijor is beautiful. I can imagine that’s what Boracay and the other tourist destinations were [like] before."
Anilao, Batangas
Another popular travel destination for divers is Anilao, Batangas. It's about two to three hours away from Manila, and its waters are just full of incredible marine biodiversity.
Batanes
"If you want to be closed off and nobody can get in touch with you, [go to] Batanes," Secretary Berna recommended. In Batanes, everything's just sooo beautiful, it's where you can *really* enjoy some peace and quiet. You'll be amazed at the scenery!
The Cordilleras
If you prefer cold weather and are interested in learning a bit about our indigenous tribes, check out The Cordilleras. It's where the rice terraces are located!
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