The festive season is finally over, and in the cold, uneventful realm that is January, the only light of hope combating the winter blues remains the premise of a remote, sunny getaway.
And there’s no better place to experience just that than Asia, a continent filled with stunning sights and soul-enriching cultures, not to mention sunny shores that make the gray, cloudy skies back home feel like a mere memory.
Between the many gorgeous hotspots scattered around Asia, there’s one particular archipelago that’s currently enjoying the international limelight like never before.
Having drawn over 5.45 million visitors in the past 12 months, the Philippines marked its most successful tourism year to date, and traffic to the mesmerizing country doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
The record number, which surpassed not only pre-pandemic levels but also the very expectations set for 2023, is, in part, owed to U.S. travelers, who seem to be rediscovering the allure of the archipelagic nation.
But what convinced over 900,000 Americans to cover the 8,207 miles (13,208) it takes to get to the Philippines?
One-Of-A-Kind Sights
There’s no better way to answer the question “What makes the Philippines so captivating?” than to just show a picture of one of its many, many natural wonders.
Boasting an unparalleled collection of idyllic beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush rainforests, the country has become the physical representation of heaven on Earth.
It’s safe to say that your sightseeing itinerary will be jam-packed.
Iconic attractions like Palawan, Boracay, Siarago, the Batad Rice Terraces, and the Kawasan Falls provide the ultimate backdrop for some jaw-dropping travel pictures.
So Much Culture To Take In
Though there’s no scientific rhyme or reason to back up this claim, I’ve always believed that a country’s natural allure tends to go hand in hand with its cultural richness – and the Philippines is the perfect embodiment of that.
Its history, shaped by centuries of influences from both indigenous cultures and colonizers, has created a tapestry of traditions, arts, and customs that are bound to leave an impression on anyone lucky enough to experience them.
Depending on the timing of your visit, local events like the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo and the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo are not to be missed.
Here, you can interact with locals and their fusion of local and Spanish-influenced traditions firsthand, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonderful Filipino culture.
Your Dollar Will Stretch Further
Beyond its visual and cultural allure, the Philippines promises visitors a great-value experience.
While prices in the Philippines are pretty reasonable as is, there’s one particular factor that’s making travel to the country cheaper than ever – the Philippine Peso has experienced a notable drop against the U.S. dollar, and that’s at a time when the North American currency has also notably weakened.
So, while traveling to other countries might’ve gotten more expensive this past year, the opposite is true of the Philippines, where the same item that would cost $210 a couple of years ago costs just $179 right now.
One Of The Most Well-Connected Hotspots In Asia
There are few things that modern travelers value as much as convenience, especially when it comes to long-haul flights, which is why the Philippines’ reputation as one of the most well-connected hotspots in Asia has been one of the main drivers behind its meteoric rise to popularity.
With a vast network of international airports, including the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila as well as hubs in Cebu, Davao, and Clark, the country has made it easier than ever for travelers to enter its borders.
The abundance of direct flights from the U.S. to Manila, in particular, has turned the gorgeous capital into a thriving tourist hotspot.
A Warm, Inviting Atmosphere
Lovingly nicknamed the “Pearl of the Orient Seas,” the Philippines’ awe-inspiring beauty is only rivaled by the genuine smiles and welcoming nature of its people.
From the bustling streets of Manila to the remote mountainous villages, visitors are greeted with open arms and even treated like family, all in honor of a local concept called “kapwa,” which emphasizes a shared feeling of humanity and contributes to the overall sense of warmth and hospitality felt all throughout the country.
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