Explore the country in depth

If this sounds interesting, then you’re in for a treat – this is exactly the kind of real encounter the Philippines offers beyond its famous white-sand beaches. With over 7,000 islands, you can apply for… E-Travel Philippines It can be your gateway to a colorful blend of history, culture, cuisine and hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Step away from the typical resorts and you’ll find rice terraces older than the Roman Empire, rocky volcanoes, Spanish-era colonial towns, secret caves, crowded wet markets, remote islands… we could go on!

Ready to go further? In this article, we’ll show you five ways to go beyond the beaten path and explore the Philippines in depth.

Don’t just stick to DC

Many visitors land in Manila, transfer to Boracay – perhaps a stop in Cebu – and then stop over. While these destinations are great, limiting your trip to these three destinations is a bit like visiting Italy and skipping Florence, Sicily, and Venice.

In fact, with over 7,000 islands worth exploring, why settle for the more popular locations? Let’s get out the map and let wanderlust lead the way to these Hidden gems:

• If you’re looking to surf and enjoy a relaxed pace, head to Siargaothe surfing capital of the country. In addition to the waves, the island has a relaxed, barefoot charm and natural gems like the Sugba Lagoon and the Magpopungko rock pools.
• For something completely different, head north to Batanes. With its rolling hills, stone houses, and windswept slopes, it is often called the “Scotland of the Philippines.” Meanwhile, in Davao, you can taste the famous sour-tasting durian fruit and see the rare Philippine eagle. (One of the most endangered eagles in the world).
• Finally, in northern Palawan, Coron’s turquoise lagoons, hidden lagoons and dramatic limestone cliffs provide an island-hopping paradise for snorkelers and divers.

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Learn more about the country’s history

To truly understand and do slow travel in the Philippines, you need to learn about its history, and there is no shortage of places to do that!

• Let’s start at the beginning: the Tabon Caves in Palawan. known as “The cradle of Philippine civilization“, This archaeological site is where the country’s oldest human remains were discovered – some dating back more than 16,000 years.
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• From there, head north to Banaue and Batad to marvel at the rice terraces that were carved into the mountains more than 2,000 years ago and are still in use today. No wonder it is a UNESCO Heritage Site that has been described as a “living cultural landscape of unparalleled beauty.”
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• Now let us move back to the Spanish colonial period with a visit to the capital, Manila, where the city’s Intramuros district – also known as “Walled city“—It was the center of power during more than 300 years of Spanish rule. Wander its cobblestone lanes, explore Fort Santiago, and admire the grandeur of San Agustín Church, the oldest stone church in the country.
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• About 250 miles to the north lies Vigan, another UNESCO site and one of the best preserved Spanish colonial cities in Asia. horse-drawn carts (Callisas) Baroque palaces and heritage houses paint a vivid picture of eighteenth-century life.
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• For a deeper dive into modern history, take a boat to Corregidor Island, where hidden ruins and tunnels provide a look at iconic World War II battles between Filipino-American and Japanese forces.

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Go on a food tour

Filipino cuisine is as diverse as its islands –Delicious fusion From Malaysian, Chinese, Spanish and American influences. To get an authentic taste of it, skip the chain restaurants and head to a restaurant carinderiaa small family-run restaurant where you will find authentic home-cooked meals.

The country’s “unofficial dish” is adobo, a stew of meat, usually pork or chicken, cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic and bay leaves – and each island, town and city has its own version. Be sure to try several to find your favorite.

Another must-try dish is… siniganga sour soup made from tamarind that can be made with pork, shrimp or fish and is loved for its comforting taste. For something truly festive, there’s lechon, a whole pig grilled over charcoal until the skin is perfectly crisp.

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Learn some words from Tagalog

Filipinos are known for being warm and welcoming, but make the effort to learn a few basic Tagalog phrases, and you’ll be rewarded with even bigger smiles.

Learning a few everyday words can go a long way. Try to say “Salamat” (Thank you) or “Kamosta?” (How are you?) when greeting local people. If you enjoy a delicious meal, “Masarap!” (Delicious) Always a crowd pleaser.

Shopping at the market? “Makano Ito?” means “How much is this?” It is useful when browsing local stalls. On a hot day he asks “Bahingi naman bu ng tubig” (Can I have some water, please?) This might make for a refreshing break and a friendly chat.

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Go and discover your own place by slow traveling in the Philippines!

After all, the Philippines is not just another vacation spot, it is a beautiful blend of cultures, languages, landscapes and lifestyles. To appreciate its beauty, go beyond the typical routes. Explore more. Try unfamiliar. Go deeper!

Who knows, maybe you’ll find your perfect place and never want to leave. With thousands of carrot To choose from, there is a high probability that one of them will be “the one.”