Travel Tips for Millennials in the Philippines

Children born between 1982 and 2002 are who we call the millennial generation. This age group will eventually replace the Baby-boomers as they retire. These most organized generations ever are true multi-taskers, who are expected to have 6-8 careers in their lifetime and are captivated to diverse environments.

With the emerging power of the “millennial market” the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) expressed trust that local tourism will further increase and surpass projections because of them. With the growing numbers of millennials traveling every year, here are tips that could help them maximize their “wanderlust.”

Look for a Local Travel Agent that can help you

As an excited traveler, millennials tend to be overwhelmed about the prices that they see, whether online or offline. To look for a reasonable promo, you should know that getting in touch with a travel agent will help you have better understanding thus, arriving to a wise decision making process.

For millennials who will be traveling for the first time, an experienced tour operator in the Philippines can help you address important issues such as cheap bookings, fun-filled itineraries and accurate travel dates for a hassle-free journey.

Pack Less, Travel Smarter

Packing and traveling light means putting all the important things in your bags and luggages. To be prepared, one must secure a checklist on what to bring like enough number of clothes, travel devices, toiletry basics, important documents, sufficient cash and medicine kit just when you need them the most. The tip is to have atleast 2-3 luggages which include one main bag to save you more money on checked baggage.

Smarter packing will also help you compartmentalize things and where you should find them. Moreover, lesser risk of important items being stolen can be assured. Just pack those that you’ll know you’ll need and use. Traveling light can help you tour comfortably making everything handy and not all over the place.

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Tourists Delight: Festivals in Batanes for Every Travelers

Fiestas have huge influence in every Filipino culture. Districts, barangays, cities and provinces in the Philippines celebrate fiestas to reminisce the past, to keep the Filipino spirits alive and to honor different gods. Sometimes, they believed in it as it control certain aspects of life—family, health, wealth, livelihood and others, especially in Batanes.

Annually, you won’t be missing the “celebratory vibe” because fiestas of all kinds are marked all-year round in the Filipino calendars. Some are also declared as official holidays especially if these festivals have something to do with patron saints, products or activities that a certain place is known for. This practice engraves the Filipino culture and will stay for more years to come.

Let us take for example, Batanes. It is the northernmost province in the Philippines and also the smallest, both in population and land area. Though it is a minor island, they never fail to celebrate different fiestas to pay it forward and thank their gods for an abundant harvest. In addition, Festivities in Batanes also help promote tourism to showcase the unique heritage of the Ivatans.

Your tour in Batanes would definitely be not complete if you’ll not witness their different fiestas. Here’s a guide on what to expect when you visit there to spend your vacation.

Kulay Festival

If you happen to book around the 2nd week of April with the help of your travel agent, you are very lucky to witness the “Kulay Festival” which means, “anything dried” this festival highlights the simple yet colorful food heritage of the Ivatans.

They celebrated it in cooperation with the local government of Basco, Batanes and the Philippine’s Department of Trade and Industry. The main objective of this 5-day feast is to introduce locally manufactured and processed food products like dried products such as onion, garlic, rice, corn and fish among others to local and foreign tourists visiting their province.

Bayanihan or Payuhuan Festival

In the Ivatan laguage, “payuhan” stands for cooperation which is truly evident in this 5-day event every June. In this event, a province-wide procession is done to recall the route of evangelization. Communities and schools conduct the Ivatan Olympics to pay tribute to their native game. Another highlight of this fiesta is the Kanan Nu Kumavahayan or the Unity Lunch, a government funded celebration for everyone.

Palu-palo Festival

Celebrated every 1st week of August, it is one of the must-see feasts in the Philippines. This is the time wherein people get to have a glimpse of the rich lands of Batanes, have a taste of their cuisine and discover more about their history. This is a yearly festival of the Ivatans in Basco, Batanes centers on livelihood and culture. Coming from the name itself, “palu-palo” it is a stick used by Ivatans in the past to combat their colonizers.

At the end of the day, Philippine fiestas are not only beneficial to the locals. These important events have proven to invite “balik-bayans” and foreign tourist to celebrate with the Filipinos. With the rich culture and heritage of the Ivatans showcased during these fiestas, it just goes to show that Batanes has more to offer than its picturesque sceneries.

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Welcome to Philippines

Mabuhay! Welcome to the 7,107 islands of the Philippines. This country is made up of 3 major island mainly called Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Located in the Southeast Asian region, it is an ideal destination for those who are seeking for the ultimate escapade and nature trip because of its abundant flora and fauna.

Often called as the Pearl of the Orient Seas, tourists and locals here can enjoy verdant forests, pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear lakes and awe-inspiring mountains scattered from different provinces like the famed Boracay, Bohol and El Nido in Palawan. Being endowed with beautiful natural resources, many adventurers can enjoy thrilling outdoor activities here like snorkeling, mountain climbing, trekking and banana boat ride.

Due to its different colonizers, “Filipinas” is the most westernized culture in the Asian continent in many ways. Behind its rich Malay origin conceals a mixture of Spanish, American, Chinese and Japanese heritages.

Aside from that, Philippines is also composed of minor and major tribes found in some provinces. Some of them are the Ifugaos, Negritos and Bajaos which add to the country’s mixture of colorful races.

The Filipinos are known to be one of the most hospitable people in Asia and around the world with welcoming, warm, and artistic attitude. More than the usual Asian cruise which are quite expensive, the Philippines offers a more unique and affordable tourist destinations like Batanes and Legazpi, that encourage the learning of history, arts and culture. Aside from this, Philippines also have wide listing of delectable cuisine with a fusion of Asian and Western taste.

If you plan to visit this country, be sure to stay longer to enjoy various historical landmarks, unique wildlife creatures like the Philippine monkey-eating eagle and the tarsier. Being a tropical country, it has a perfect mix of the hot and cold weather. You can never go wrong if you choose Philippines as a travel destination because its certainly more fun here!

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Practical Reasons Why Koreans Travel in the Philippines

There are many Koreans who visit the Philippines to explore tourist attractions and great local food. According to the Department of Tourism, there are a total of 100,000 arrivals from Koreans on a monthly basis since February 2015.

Some of the best tourist’s destinations for Korean tourists are Manila, Cebu, Bohol and Southern Luzon. According to a tour operator in the Philippines, they are all around the country; they are almost found in Kalibo, Aklan, Clark, Davao and many other places.

This means that the Philippine Tourism industry attained significant growth that created a mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries. In fact, Philippines is becoming one of the favorite destinations of the Koreans for these several reasons:

Koreans Prefer to Study English in the Philippines

For many Koreans, studying in the Philippines is the first step to learn conversational English. Learning the English language is the key for their competency so that they could land on white-collar jobs when they go back to their country. Korean students study in the country because Filipinos are well-versed in speaking English.

According to the Wall Street Journal, roughly around 14 thousand Koreans have traveled to the Philippines over the last 3 years to learn English at private academies for a fraction of a cost as compared to other English speaking nations. Foreigners mostly prefer to meet  patient, fun-loving and hardworking Filipino teachers.

Koreans Enjoy Philippines’ Holiday and Leisure Destinations

Indeed, Koreans have invaded the Philippines in a good way. With Filipino’s warmth and welcoming personality, they fell in love with some of the famous tourist spots in the country.

A Filipino travel agent also told that they love to visit the Philippines because of less travel hours from Seoul. They also come to the Philippines over the weekend to play golf, to shop, relax and do other entertaining activities. This only means that they are bringing in bucket of dollars into the Philippines both through consumer spending and direct investments.

The Low-Cost of Living in the Philippines Attracted Koreans

Koreans prefer to study here because it is better of more affordable than other Asian countries. They are able to live comfortably in the Philippines even on a very limited budget. Some of them are not just about touring the Philippines, they settled in the Philippines because of its pristine, vast, and attractive environment and relatively low cost of living.

While the Philippines is becoming one of the favorite destinations of the Koreans, there is also a demand of Filipinos who wants to visit Korea or any travel hotspots in the Philippines. This only goes to show that there is a very healthy exchange of tourism between these two lovely nations.

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Touring Bohol: Important Landmarks You Should Visit

Bohol is one of the most famous tourist destinations because of “Chocolate Hills.” But did you know that this province in the Central Visayan region has a lot more to offer? To give you an overview, this place has different spots suited for families, friends and even couples. Some of these landmarks are offered and organized by different tour operators in the Philippines.

Last October 2013, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake strucked Bohol which has left huge amount of damages to the island’s centry old churches and buildings. Fast forward today, the province is well on its way to recovery. Along with the calamity that they’ve faced, the Boholanos resiliency are very evident as they proudly show locals and even foreign tourists its diverse world-famous tourist attractions. 

The upcoming holidays are the best time to visit Bohol. Check out the best places that you can think of to enjoy its God-given beauty. Thus, we have compiled some of its important landmarks to make the most out of your tour.

Tarsier Observation in Corella

Tarsiers are nocturnal mammals that are usually comparable with the size of a human fist. These gentle animals are found at the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, Bohol. This well-known sanctuary surely promotes the preservation and observation of the Philippine tarsier or scientifically called as: Tarsius Syrichta in their natural habitat.

Boholanos ensure that Tarsiers are well taken care of since the creatures are endangered species. These sensitive animals can be disturbed easily. So, if you want to take a picture of them, it is best to turn off the flash of your camera.

Panglao Island

This island found in the southern part of Bohol is best known to have the best white sand beaches. Aside from these prestigious islands, Panglao’s many resorts also offer whale watching with spinner dolphins seen after sunrise. Thus, island hopping is one of the best activity it offers.

Aside from the alluring beaches of Panglao, it also showcases other famous attractions such as the Bohol Bee Farm. Other includes a separate old resort and restaurant which serves yummy, organic healthy food as well as other Boholano delicacies. They also sell souvenirs for their local and foreign tourists.

Baclayon Church in Bohol

One of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, this religious place traces its relics back to the early 16th century. At the municipality of Baclayon, Bohol, you may found the La Purisima Concepcion de la Virgen Maria Parish Church.

Firefly Cruise in Loay River

These illuminating and twinkling light insects can be found in Loay River at night. This is a perfect place for tourists who are looking for a new itinerary. In this activity, you will ride a slow moving unlit barge that will take you to the wider part of the river. Meanwhile, the river are filled with moving mangroves giving it an eerie or romantic vibe depending on your mood.

You don’t have to spend too much money to enjoy these famous landmark in Bohol. Traveling that fits your budget without compromising the opportunity of seeing a world-class tourist destination that you and your travel buddies are enough to be proud of.

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Touring Davao City in Affordable Ways

   Davao is one of the most celebrated cities in the Philippines. It is where you’ll taste a notoriously pungent but yummy fruit called “Durian.” In addition, here dwells the captive-bred Philippine Eagle, an endangered specie. In the world, Davao ranks 5th among the safest cities, making it one of the ideal places for local and foreign tourists annually.

Traveling is best enjoyed if money is spend wisely. For first-time tourist, getting an affordable tour packages in Davao is one of the ways to get started. But of course, the best getaway experience is always best spent with dear friends and loved ones. Here are some tips on how to spend a budget-friendly vacation with them.

Discover the history of Davao by visiting its museums

There are many tour operators in the Philippines that offers customized iteneraries for their customers. If the Museo Dabawenyo or the “Museum of the People of Davao is included on your planned route, you will be delighted to rediscover the culture and heritage of this city. The other one is called “Davao Museum,” which is just bigger than the later, and is located inside the Insular Village in Lanang.

As an educational and historical hub, this museum showcases four rooms: The Indigenous People’s Gallery, The Moro People’s Gallery, The Contemporary Gallery and the Memorabilia Gallery. Primarily, these galleries features arts, crafts, old tribe weapons, musical instruments, wood carvings, and a whole lot more.

This museum is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 9:00 am to 12:00 nn and 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. It is closed during Mondays for maintenance works and during holyweek, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. For tourists and locals, you don’t need to worry about the entrance fee because it is free.

Roam around Davao’s park and have some breath of fresh air

One of the famous nature reserves in Davao is the “People’s Park” which is one of the go to places there nowadays. This basically a four hectare theme park that features life-sized structures of the Philippine Eagle and the Lumads.

If you’re a traveler who just wants to stroll the park and is into something exciting and interesting, this park has wonderful landmarks such as Dancing Fountain, Artificial Waterfalls, Durian Domes, Artificial Forests and many more.

It is one of the few public places in the country that is free of liter. Therefore, it was admired for its cleanliness. Tourists can also relax, take pictures with the backdrop of well-maintained pine trees that reflects the rich mountains of Davao. Also, this place is just right behind the busy streets. Thus, perfectly complimenting those who just want to rest and take a break from their work. Lastly, the entrance fee of People’s Park is also free.

Conquer the Philippine’s highest peak, Mt. Apo

Also known as the “King of Philippine Peaks.” For adventurers and trekkers, whether professional or amateur, chose this mountain as their climbing destination.

The summit of Mt. Apo overlooks Davao City to the northeast part of Digos City to the Southeast and Kidapawan City to the west. For those who are interested to conquer the grandfather of Philippine Mountains, some schedules are set by different local travel agencies. All you need to do is search and contact them for reservations.

Davao City has a lot more to offer other than these suggested landmarks both natural and man-made wonders. So, if you’re looking for an affordable getaway this coming vacation, this place must be on top of your list.

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What Tourists Should Bring When Traveling to El Nido

El Nido, Palawan is one of the most marvelous top tourist destination when we talk about nature, turquoise beaches and summer time. It is one of the visited islands found in the Visayas Region because of its breathtaking god-given beauty. Planning your vacation with the help of different tour operators in the Philippines can be of great help for a convenient and memorable experience on this island especially for first-timers.

However, we all know that when excitement gets in the way, travelers can sometimes forget something. We can’t blame them because the feeling is very overwhelming. To be an efficient traveler, one must be prepared. Preparedness comes on our readiness on what to bring and what not to bring to avoid the hassle.

In this article, we have compiled some of the most important travel essentials that you should be including on your luggages when exploring the beauty that is called El Nido, Palawan.

Cash / Enough Money

Traveling can be very expensive. But at the end of the day, you should know how to budget your finances properly when going to El Nido. The right amount of money will make you survive and at least pay for your basic needs like the airfare, food, water and accommodation expenses. Just a tip, except for Puerto Prinsesa, there are no ATMs in El Nido, Sabang and the rest of Palawan. Therefore, make sure you have enough money when you need it the most.

Medicine Kit

Sometimes, Palawan can have remote places which have no access for medicine. In the event that you experience some health related issues while exploring the island, it is best to include paracetamol, ibuprofen, decongestants, vitamins and other medicine in your backpack. This is to prevent nausea, headache, jet lag, diarrhea and other diseases while away from home. Always remember that preparedness during this time will make you enjoy every minute of your vacation.

Powerbanks

Communication is very important at this modern age where internet and social media is visible wherever you go. Powerbanks are ultra-saving devices that will help you in case you run out of battery while taking pictures using your mobile phones. Don’t get disconnected when touring El Nido, so make sure that you take with you enough supplies of powerbanks. Lastly, record all the wonderful moments that you’ll surely missed when you leave Palawan.

Comfortable Clothes and Decent Swimwear

Magnetized by the beauty of El Nido with its white sand beaches along with exciting water activities for everyone. To protect you against harmful elements and move freely, it is very important to have some comfortable clothes and decent swimwear.

With successful planning comes an ultimate vacation that you’ll surely not forget. To be on top of things when traveling, make sure to have these travel essential with you wherever you go.

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