Explore 5 hidden gems in the Philippines with unique experiences and stunning beauty. Discover these unexplored destinations for an unforgettable adventure.
The Philippines is known for its beaches, its cities, and its landscape, but there are also many other places in the country that are not as well-known as Boracay, Palawan, or Cebu. These are the offbeat gems which provide a mix of what the country has to offer; culture, natural scenery and even a bit of glamor. Below are the five off the beaten path destinations in the Philippines that should be on your radar:
1. Batanes – A Journey to the Edge of the World
The province is known as the ‘Land of the Winds’ due to the fact that the winds have carved the landscape of the island. It is located in the northern most part of the Philippines and it is a perfect place for tourists who seek for a peaceful environment since it is less exposed. Although, to access this group of islands one has to make some effort, it is so worthwhile.
There are rolling hills, Ivatan stone houses and lighthouses with views of the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea when you are in Batanes. The place is very quiet and has the look of magic about it so it is an ideal place to just chill out and be with nature. It is also possible to rent a bike and cycle around the islands to be able to visit various places of interest on the islands at one’s own pace. Lovers of nature cannot miss Marlboro Hills where one can enjoy the view of the sunset, green pastures and cows feeding.
2. Sagada – A Mystical Mountain Retreat
The town is situated in the Cordillera Mountain range and has a cool climate, gorgeous scenery, and a building that is steeped in history and culture. Although now it is slightly more known than before, it is still quite unrecognized and is a perfect place for tourists.
Sagada is most famous for the Hanging Coffins, a death ritual that has not been abandoned by the locals. This makes it a special cultural trip and the large limestone cliffs simply add to the experience. One of the most famous spots is the Sumaguing Cave where one can see the ceiling filled with stalactites, the floor with stalagmites, and the walls with natural pools. For the thrill-seekers, it is a must to visit Bomod-ok Falls by going on a trek or climbing Kiltepan Viewpoint to catch the sunrise with the ‘sea of clouds’.
For the people seeking for the spiritual healing, Sagada’s hushed pine woods and crisp mountain breeze are a unique way of escaping the concrete jungle of the city.
3. City of Dreams Manila – A Luxury Getaway in the Heart of the City
Although the Philippines is a country which is rich in natural wonders and beauty, it also has its fair share of luxurious cities. City of Dreams Manila is a luxury integrated resort and casino in the entertainment city of Manila. City of Dreams is another popular destination for tourists in Manila and this is especially true for people seeking for a classy city vacation.
City of Dreams has everything that a traveler may need, and it is more than just a hotel, it is a perfect place for those who want to spend their vacation in the Philippines. The resort has three hotels which are upscale, each with quality rooms, quality service and quality facilities. But what sets City of Dreams apart is its casino, which is one of the biggest and most opulent in the country.
The casino spans 18,000 square meters, featuring over 300 tables, 1,500 slot machines, and exclusive gaming areas. It caters to both recreational and professional gamblers with a variety of games including poker, blackjack, baccarat, and roulette. The appealing interior design and exceptional service ensure a top-notch experience. Beyond gaming, City of Dreams offers top dining, shopping, and entertainment options like the DreamPlay theme park and the renowned Pangaea Nightclub. If you’re interested in trying online casino games, visit Leonbet India for a great gaming experience.
4. Siquijor – The Island of Mystical Healing
This is so because Siquijor is well-known as the island of witches and healers and as such many unusual and superstitious beliefs are associated with the island. It has thus remained to some extent an off the beaten track location especially for those with an apprehension about the magical features of the place. But not only this, Siquijor is also a home to some of the most beautiful beaches, waterfalls and other natural attractions in the Philippines.
Incurably romantic, visitors will find that the island has much more to offer than interesting legends. Siquijor has some of the most stunning and unspoilt beaches such as Salagdoong Beach and Paliton Beach where one can swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters and lie on the white sand. Cambugahay Falls is a three-level waterfall located within a forest area and offers swimming or swinging on a rope into the water.
To get a unique experience, one can go to Siquijor’s faith healers, where you can be treated with herbal baths, spiritual cleansing and massage that are aimed at rebalancing the body and the spirit. Still, doubting the mystic aura of the island, Siquijor offers an exciting, relaxing, and cultural vacation option.
5. Camiguin – The Island Born of Fire
Camiguin also called “The Island Born of Fire” is an island province in the northern part of Mindanao. Though it is one of the least known provinces in the Philippines, Camiguin is rich in natural wonders which are quite accessible within the province.
The island boasts of seven volcanoes with Mount Hibok-Hibok being the most active, a climb up the volcano is quite strenuous but the view from the top over the island and the sea is majestic. However, Camiguin is more than just its volcanoes as it has beautiful falls, hot springs, and white beach. White Island, a small sandbar that is devoid of human population and is located at a short distance from the shore, is one of the key points of interest of the island. This place can be reached only by boat and it is a beautiful place, where one can see the volcanoes of Camiguin with the azure sea surrounding it.
Historical buffs will not fail to be fascinated by the Sunken Cemetery – a large cross which is submerged in the sea due to volcanic activity in the island. It is an underwater graveyard where divers flock to dive and swim with ships that have been wrecked and have become a home to marine life.
Conclusion
Although the famous tourist destinations such as Boracay and Palawan are beautiful, the Philippines has other less popular but equally exciting places to visit. From the picturesque island of Batanes with its windy landscapes to the more mysterious province of Siquijor and all the way to the luxurious City of Dreams in Manila, these off the beaten path sights and sounds are perfect for those who are willing to step out of the typical tourist track. The next time you book your trip to the Philippines, make sure to visit these off the beaten path destinations.