The post Here’s Why You Should Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The Philippines is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty, boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical rainforests. From the world-famous white sands of Boracay and Palawan’s breathtaking limestone cliffs to the idyllic islands of Siargao and Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills, the country’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Visitors can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, swim with whale sharks in the waters of Donsol, or trek through the dense jungles of Luzon and Mindanao, encountering rare wildlife and cascading waterfalls along the way. With its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity, the Philippines is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Philippines boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries of history, colonization, and diverse influences from around the world. Visitors can explore colonial-era churches and Spanish forts in historic cities such as Manila, Intramuros, and Vigan, where echoes of the country’s colonial past still resonate. The Philippines is also home to vibrant indigenous communities, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. From colorful festivals and traditional dances to age-old rituals and culinary delights, the country’s cultural diversity is celebrated throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the warmth and hospitality of Filipino culture.
One of the most enduring charms of the Philippines is the warmth and hospitality of its people, known for their genuine smiles, welcoming nature, and generous spirit. Visitors to the Philippines are often greeted with open arms and treated like family, whether enjoying a home-cooked meal with locals, participating in community events and celebrations, or simply striking up a conversation with strangers. The Filipino concept of “bayanihan,” or communal unity and cooperation, permeates daily life, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging that leaves a lasting impression on travelers long after they’ve left the islands. With its friendly locals and genuine hospitality, the Philippines offers visitors not just a destination, but a heartfelt welcome to a home away from home.
The post Here’s Why You Should Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Foodie Tour of Southeast Asia appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Thailand is home to some of the most famous dishes in the world. From the ubiquitous Pad Thai to the fiery Tom Yum soup, Thailand’s cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors. One must-try dish is the green papaya salad, known as Som Tam, which combines spicy chilies, tart lime juice, and sweet palm sugar with crunchy strips of green papaya. Another popular dish is the massaman curry, a rich and complex dish made with a blend of spices, coconut milk, and tender chunks of beef or chicken.
Vietnam’s cuisine is influenced by both Chinese and French traditions. One must-try dish is pho, a hearty noodle soup that combines tender slices of beef or chicken with aromatic herbs and spices. Another popular dish is the banh mi, a French-inspired sandwich that features a crusty baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
In Malaysia, the cuisine is a blend of Indian, Chinese, and Malay flavors. One must-try dish is the nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish that is cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves. It is typically served with fried chicken or fish, sambal chili paste, and a variety of side dishes like boiled egg, cucumber, and peanuts.
Indonesia is another must-visit destination for food lovers. The cuisine is known for its rich and complex flavors, which are often derived from a blend of spices and herbs. One must-try dish is the nasi goreng, a fried rice dish that is typically made with shrimp, chicken, or vegetables, and flavored with a blend of spices like ginger, turmeric, and coriander.
Finally, we come to the Philippines, where the cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. One must-try dish is the adobo, a savory and tangy stew that is typically made with chicken or pork, and flavored with soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. Another popular dish is the pancit, a stir-fried noodle dish that can be made with a variety of meats and vegetables.
The post Foodie Tour of Southeast Asia appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 3 Stunning Natural Wonders You Can Only Find in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Chocolate Hills are one of the most unique geological formations that you’ll ever come across. They consist of at least 1,260 perfectly cone-shaped hills in the Bohol province. When the dry season comes around, the grass covering these hills turns brown and they look just like chocolate kisses – and that’s how they earned their famous nickname.
Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, Banaue Rice Terraces have been cultivated by the indigenous Ifugao people for over 2,000 years. Located approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, these hand-carved terraces became a true sensation thanks to their unique lush appearance.
If you’re in the mood for a diving adventure that you’ll never forget while in the Philippines, it doesn’t get better than Tubbataha Reef. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, and it will help you gain a new appreciation of the Philippines’ diverse marine life.
The post 3 Stunning Natural Wonders You Can Only Find in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Must-Have Experiences for Travelers in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Named as the “Best Island in the World” by Travel + Leisure magazine, Palawan is actually a collection of islands famous for their white sand beaches with turquoise waters and colorful marine life. Tourists can go island hopping to explore the many hidden lagoons and limestone cliffs. On the main island, be sure to check out the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marked by its impressive rock formations.
Manila is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in Filipino culture. Walk through the ancient streets of Intramuros and visit landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, or dive into local history at the National Museum of the Philippines. Afterward, head to Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown for some delicious street food.
Nature enthusiasts should with a doubt include a hike to the summit of Mount Mayon in their itinerary. This iconic volcano is renowned for its picture-perfect cone shape and the breathtaking views that can be observed from its peak. It is one of the Philippines most active volcanoes, so just be sure to follow any recommended safety precautions.
The post Must-Have Experiences for Travelers in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Top 3 Theme Parks That You Shouldn’t Miss in Manila, Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Located in Pasay, just south of Manila, Star City is the most popular theme park located in its close proximity. After a devastating fire and COVID-19 restrictions, Star City reopened its doors in 2022, and it now offers 25 rides for visitors of all ages.
SM Mall of Asia is the largest shopping mall in the Philippines, located within Manila Bay, and its home to countless different attractions. SM by the Bay Amusement Park is one of them, and it offers a number of fun rides, including a 55-meter Ferris wheel, known as The Eye of Asia.
If your little ones prefer aquatic theme parks to traditional amusement parks, this ocean park will be their favorite place in Manila. It’s home to a large oceanarium, and it offers a wide range of exhibits about different types of animals, from bird and sea lion shows to jellyfish exhibits.
The post Top 3 Theme Parks That You Shouldn’t Miss in Manila, Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Spectacular Caves of the Philippines Have to Be Seen to Be Believed appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>In addition to being one of the Philippines’ top tourist attractions, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is also home to one of its most spectacular caves. The cave is actually known by the name St. Paul’s Underground River Cave and you can join a boat tour to explore its underground river and 15-mile-long cave.
Located on Panglao Island, this limestone cave comes with a deep lagoon and many large stalactites and stalagmites. It’s naturally lighted thanks to holes in the ceiling that let the sunlight in. It’s pretty easy to explore it since it’s just 100 meters long and its beautiful rock formations are worth your time.
Callao is one of 300 caves located inside the municipality of Peñablanca, which literarily translates to “white rock”. These words perfectly describe this spectacular 7-chamber limestone show cave, best known for being home to many beautiful rock formations and a tiny chapel.
The post Spectacular Caves of the Philippines Have to Be Seen to Be Believed appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Philippines is Home to Some Pretty Breathtaking Volcanoes appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Many of the Philippines’ most popular volcanoes are lining the edge of Luzon Island, and that also happens to be the case with Taal. Despite the fact it’s still active, this volcano is a huge hit with tourists because it’s easily reachable from Manila and it’s home to one of the most beautiful crater lakes you’ll ever see.
Mayon is another breathtaking volcano on the island of Luzon that you shouldn’t miss for the world while in the Philippines. It’s a dream come true for photographers thanks to its nearly perfect cone and it’s a part of a protected area together with its nearby surrounding.
It’s only been two decades since Pinatubo’s most notorious eruption, but that’s not stopping tourists from flocking to this volcano. It’s extremely popular with hikers thanks to its good network of hiking trails that lead to the charming Lake Pinatubo that was formed after a 1991 eruption.
The post The Philippines is Home to Some Pretty Breathtaking Volcanoes appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Best Things to Do While Vacationing in Boracay appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Close your eyes and imagine the perfect beach. What does it look like? If you see white sand and turquoise waters, then you’re basically imagining the beaches on Boracay. From the main beach, White Beach, to the others that are a bit quieter like Puka Beach and Bulabog Beach, there’s no denying that Boracay has some of the best beaches in the world.
If you like seafood, you’ll be in heaven on Boracay. There are so many different seafood restaurants that you can enjoy, or even just get fresh seafood from the market and have it cooked at a paluto restaurant just the way you like it.
Are you an active traveler? Looking to work off all of that lobster you ate? Well, you’re in luck, because Boracay offers a huge variety of water sports, like windsurfing, kitesurfing, skimboarding, banana boating, water skiing, and parasailing. You can even take mermaid swimming lessons.
The post The Best Things to Do While Vacationing in Boracay appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Discover the Beauty of Crater Lakes in The Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Taal Lake is located within the caldera of an active volcano, and it was formed by large eruptions that took place between 100,000 and 500,000 years ago. Taal Volcano remains the second-most active volcano in the Philippines, but it’s still pretty popular with tourists thanks to its picturesque surroundings.
Another breathtaking lake located inside the crater of an active volcano, Lake Pinatubo hasn’t been around for too long. It was actually formed by a climactic eruption in 1991, and it became a pretty popular natural landmark thanks to its relatively close proximity to Manila.
Mount Melibengoy, also known as Mount Parker, had only three recorded eruptions in its history, but one of them left a significant mark. The volcanic activity led to the formation of Lake Maughan, one of the most beautiful natural spots on Mindanao island.
The post Discover the Beauty of Crater Lakes in The Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 5 Things to Keep in Mind if You Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Manilla is great, but if you want to visit a true paradise head to Palawan. You’ll need to take a plane and then a boat to get to Coron, but the untouched coral reefs and silky white sand beaches are well worth the detour.
When you visit a new country, learning the language basics is a must. When you say thank you, add “Po” to the end of your sentence. This is a sign of respect and the locals will appreciate it.
The Philippines offers a weird and wonderful cuisine. The unique dishes may be a little daunting to the Western pallet, but we recommend diving into the dive end with Pilipino cuisine if you want the most out of your trip. Alternatively, stick to garlic rice—it’s safe and delicious.
The Philippines contains many tiny paradise islands. The best way to see them is to rent a kayak and explore solo. We recommend asking a local for advice first.
The post 5 Things to Keep in Mind if You Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Here’s Why You Should Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The Philippines is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty, boasting pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical rainforests. From the world-famous white sands of Boracay and Palawan’s breathtaking limestone cliffs to the idyllic islands of Siargao and Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills, the country’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Visitors can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, swim with whale sharks in the waters of Donsol, or trek through the dense jungles of Luzon and Mindanao, encountering rare wildlife and cascading waterfalls along the way. With its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity, the Philippines is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Philippines boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries of history, colonization, and diverse influences from around the world. Visitors can explore colonial-era churches and Spanish forts in historic cities such as Manila, Intramuros, and Vigan, where echoes of the country’s colonial past still resonate. The Philippines is also home to vibrant indigenous communities, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. From colorful festivals and traditional dances to age-old rituals and culinary delights, the country’s cultural diversity is celebrated throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the warmth and hospitality of Filipino culture.
One of the most enduring charms of the Philippines is the warmth and hospitality of its people, known for their genuine smiles, welcoming nature, and generous spirit. Visitors to the Philippines are often greeted with open arms and treated like family, whether enjoying a home-cooked meal with locals, participating in community events and celebrations, or simply striking up a conversation with strangers. The Filipino concept of “bayanihan,” or communal unity and cooperation, permeates daily life, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging that leaves a lasting impression on travelers long after they’ve left the islands. With its friendly locals and genuine hospitality, the Philippines offers visitors not just a destination, but a heartfelt welcome to a home away from home.
The post Here’s Why You Should Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Foodie Tour of Southeast Asia appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Thailand is home to some of the most famous dishes in the world. From the ubiquitous Pad Thai to the fiery Tom Yum soup, Thailand’s cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors. One must-try dish is the green papaya salad, known as Som Tam, which combines spicy chilies, tart lime juice, and sweet palm sugar with crunchy strips of green papaya. Another popular dish is the massaman curry, a rich and complex dish made with a blend of spices, coconut milk, and tender chunks of beef or chicken.
Vietnam’s cuisine is influenced by both Chinese and French traditions. One must-try dish is pho, a hearty noodle soup that combines tender slices of beef or chicken with aromatic herbs and spices. Another popular dish is the banh mi, a French-inspired sandwich that features a crusty baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
In Malaysia, the cuisine is a blend of Indian, Chinese, and Malay flavors. One must-try dish is the nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish that is cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves. It is typically served with fried chicken or fish, sambal chili paste, and a variety of side dishes like boiled egg, cucumber, and peanuts.
Indonesia is another must-visit destination for food lovers. The cuisine is known for its rich and complex flavors, which are often derived from a blend of spices and herbs. One must-try dish is the nasi goreng, a fried rice dish that is typically made with shrimp, chicken, or vegetables, and flavored with a blend of spices like ginger, turmeric, and coriander.
Finally, we come to the Philippines, where the cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences. One must-try dish is the adobo, a savory and tangy stew that is typically made with chicken or pork, and flavored with soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. Another popular dish is the pancit, a stir-fried noodle dish that can be made with a variety of meats and vegetables.
The post Foodie Tour of Southeast Asia appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 3 Stunning Natural Wonders You Can Only Find in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Chocolate Hills are one of the most unique geological formations that you’ll ever come across. They consist of at least 1,260 perfectly cone-shaped hills in the Bohol province. When the dry season comes around, the grass covering these hills turns brown and they look just like chocolate kisses – and that’s how they earned their famous nickname.
Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, Banaue Rice Terraces have been cultivated by the indigenous Ifugao people for over 2,000 years. Located approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, these hand-carved terraces became a true sensation thanks to their unique lush appearance.
If you’re in the mood for a diving adventure that you’ll never forget while in the Philippines, it doesn’t get better than Tubbataha Reef. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, and it will help you gain a new appreciation of the Philippines’ diverse marine life.
The post 3 Stunning Natural Wonders You Can Only Find in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Must-Have Experiences for Travelers in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Named as the “Best Island in the World” by Travel + Leisure magazine, Palawan is actually a collection of islands famous for their white sand beaches with turquoise waters and colorful marine life. Tourists can go island hopping to explore the many hidden lagoons and limestone cliffs. On the main island, be sure to check out the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marked by its impressive rock formations.
Manila is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in Filipino culture. Walk through the ancient streets of Intramuros and visit landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, or dive into local history at the National Museum of the Philippines. Afterward, head to Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown for some delicious street food.
Nature enthusiasts should with a doubt include a hike to the summit of Mount Mayon in their itinerary. This iconic volcano is renowned for its picture-perfect cone shape and the breathtaking views that can be observed from its peak. It is one of the Philippines most active volcanoes, so just be sure to follow any recommended safety precautions.
The post Must-Have Experiences for Travelers in the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Top 3 Theme Parks That You Shouldn’t Miss in Manila, Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Located in Pasay, just south of Manila, Star City is the most popular theme park located in its close proximity. After a devastating fire and COVID-19 restrictions, Star City reopened its doors in 2022, and it now offers 25 rides for visitors of all ages.
SM Mall of Asia is the largest shopping mall in the Philippines, located within Manila Bay, and its home to countless different attractions. SM by the Bay Amusement Park is one of them, and it offers a number of fun rides, including a 55-meter Ferris wheel, known as The Eye of Asia.
If your little ones prefer aquatic theme parks to traditional amusement parks, this ocean park will be their favorite place in Manila. It’s home to a large oceanarium, and it offers a wide range of exhibits about different types of animals, from bird and sea lion shows to jellyfish exhibits.
The post Top 3 Theme Parks That You Shouldn’t Miss in Manila, Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Spectacular Caves of the Philippines Have to Be Seen to Be Believed appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>In addition to being one of the Philippines’ top tourist attractions, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is also home to one of its most spectacular caves. The cave is actually known by the name St. Paul’s Underground River Cave and you can join a boat tour to explore its underground river and 15-mile-long cave.
Located on Panglao Island, this limestone cave comes with a deep lagoon and many large stalactites and stalagmites. It’s naturally lighted thanks to holes in the ceiling that let the sunlight in. It’s pretty easy to explore it since it’s just 100 meters long and its beautiful rock formations are worth your time.
Callao is one of 300 caves located inside the municipality of Peñablanca, which literarily translates to “white rock”. These words perfectly describe this spectacular 7-chamber limestone show cave, best known for being home to many beautiful rock formations and a tiny chapel.
The post Spectacular Caves of the Philippines Have to Be Seen to Be Believed appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Philippines is Home to Some Pretty Breathtaking Volcanoes appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Many of the Philippines’ most popular volcanoes are lining the edge of Luzon Island, and that also happens to be the case with Taal. Despite the fact it’s still active, this volcano is a huge hit with tourists because it’s easily reachable from Manila and it’s home to one of the most beautiful crater lakes you’ll ever see.
Mayon is another breathtaking volcano on the island of Luzon that you shouldn’t miss for the world while in the Philippines. It’s a dream come true for photographers thanks to its nearly perfect cone and it’s a part of a protected area together with its nearby surrounding.
It’s only been two decades since Pinatubo’s most notorious eruption, but that’s not stopping tourists from flocking to this volcano. It’s extremely popular with hikers thanks to its good network of hiking trails that lead to the charming Lake Pinatubo that was formed after a 1991 eruption.
The post The Philippines is Home to Some Pretty Breathtaking Volcanoes appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Best Things to Do While Vacationing in Boracay appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Close your eyes and imagine the perfect beach. What does it look like? If you see white sand and turquoise waters, then you’re basically imagining the beaches on Boracay. From the main beach, White Beach, to the others that are a bit quieter like Puka Beach and Bulabog Beach, there’s no denying that Boracay has some of the best beaches in the world.
If you like seafood, you’ll be in heaven on Boracay. There are so many different seafood restaurants that you can enjoy, or even just get fresh seafood from the market and have it cooked at a paluto restaurant just the way you like it.
Are you an active traveler? Looking to work off all of that lobster you ate? Well, you’re in luck, because Boracay offers a huge variety of water sports, like windsurfing, kitesurfing, skimboarding, banana boating, water skiing, and parasailing. You can even take mermaid swimming lessons.
The post The Best Things to Do While Vacationing in Boracay appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Discover the Beauty of Crater Lakes in The Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Taal Lake is located within the caldera of an active volcano, and it was formed by large eruptions that took place between 100,000 and 500,000 years ago. Taal Volcano remains the second-most active volcano in the Philippines, but it’s still pretty popular with tourists thanks to its picturesque surroundings.
Another breathtaking lake located inside the crater of an active volcano, Lake Pinatubo hasn’t been around for too long. It was actually formed by a climactic eruption in 1991, and it became a pretty popular natural landmark thanks to its relatively close proximity to Manila.
Mount Melibengoy, also known as Mount Parker, had only three recorded eruptions in its history, but one of them left a significant mark. The volcanic activity led to the formation of Lake Maughan, one of the most beautiful natural spots on Mindanao island.
The post Discover the Beauty of Crater Lakes in The Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 5 Things to Keep in Mind if You Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Manilla is great, but if you want to visit a true paradise head to Palawan. You’ll need to take a plane and then a boat to get to Coron, but the untouched coral reefs and silky white sand beaches are well worth the detour.
When you visit a new country, learning the language basics is a must. When you say thank you, add “Po” to the end of your sentence. This is a sign of respect and the locals will appreciate it.
The Philippines offers a weird and wonderful cuisine. The unique dishes may be a little daunting to the Western pallet, but we recommend diving into the dive end with Pilipino cuisine if you want the most out of your trip. Alternatively, stick to garlic rice—it’s safe and delicious.
The Philippines contains many tiny paradise islands. The best way to see them is to rent a kayak and explore solo. We recommend asking a local for advice first.
The post 5 Things to Keep in Mind if You Visit the Philippines appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>