Aerial view of the coconut trees in Siargao, Philippines
Welcome to this Philippines travel guide!
From Philippines packing essentials to must-see destinations and insider tips, this comprehensive guide can help you get inspired – from the best islands in the Philippines to where to explore near Manila.
I’m Mel – and as a British-Filipina travel creator and blogger, I’m excited to share everything I know about the Philippines to help you make the most of your trip to this beautiful archipelago!
I’ve explored various corners of this beautiful archipelago and compiled this Philippines resource to help you navigate it as an independent traveller – and possibly as a first-timer to the country too.
So let’s dive into the best experiences in the Philippines by location and topic, complete with hyperlinks to in-depth guides and tips.
Spotted in Siargao: waving from a kayak as kids swing from the palm trees into the Maasin River
Philippines Travel Guides
Essential Philippines Travel Guide: Resources for First-Timers & Visitors
Traveling to and Within the Philippines
- Travelling To The Philippines In 2024? Important Updates & How To Use The eTravel Portal: Stay updated with the latest travel protocols with this handy guide.
- 15 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting The Philippines – Travel Tips: Prepare for your adventure with these essential travel tips.
- 5 Best Weekend Escapes near Manila | Philippines 2024 Travel Guide: Discover easy escapes from Manila’s city chaos.
- Packing For The Philippines? Bring These Essentials For A Safe, Amazing Trip!: Ensure you’re well-prepared with this comprehensive packing list.
- 5 Best Islands To Visit in The Philippines: My personal list of must-visit islands for an unforgettable experience.
Expat Life & Costs of Living in the Philippines
- 13+ Pros and Cons of Living in Makati: An Expat’s Super Honest View Of Makati: Considering moving to Makati? Here’s everything you need to know.
- What Are The Costs Of Living In Makati? | Greenbelt Rent & Budget Tips 2024: Get insights into living expenses in one of Manila’s most vibrant districts.
Browsing a fruit stall with bananas and mangos at a Palengke (public market) in Tagaytay, Cavite in Luzon
Essential Philippines Travel Guides: Cities, Islands & Regions
Luzon Travel Guides
Manila
- 10 Authentic Things To Do in Manila | Philippines 2024 Travel Guide: Dive into the heart of the Philippines with non-touristy, authentic activities in Manila.
Baler, Aurora
- A Beginner’s Guide to Surfing In Baler, Aurora, Philippines: Kickstart your surfing journey in Baler with this comprehensive guide.
- 14+ Best Things To Do In Baler, Aurora: From surfing to exploring the local culture, discover the top activities in Baler.
- Surf Chic: Costa Pacifica Resort Baler Review (Aurora, Philippines): A review of one of Baler’s most peaceful and well-decorated resorts.
Scuba Diving in Boracay’s White Beach
Mindanao Travel Guides
Siargao
- 15+ AMAZING Things to Do in Siargao Island 2024: What to do, eat, and see in Siargao for an epic trip to the surf mecca!
Visayas Travel Guides
Boracay
- 12 Epic Things to Do in Boracay Island 2024: What to do, eat, and see in Boracay Island for a memorable trip.
- The “Algae” Truth About Boracay: Understanding the environmental aspects of Boracay.
- How To Travel From Boracay to Islas de Gigantes on a Budget – Philippines: Plan your budget-friendly trip between these stunning islands.
Islas de Gigantes
- Witnessing Paradise: The Islas de Gigantes Experience: Explore the untouched beauty of Islas de Gigantes and what makes it a must-visit.
Palawan Travel Guides
El Nido
- Sea Cocoon Hotel El Nido Review: A review of your potential home away from home in El Nido.
Sunset swim in Anilao, Batangas
Philippines Travel Diaries
For those who’ve been bitten by wanderlust, who love adventure, or who want to experience one of the warmest cultures in the world – look no further than the Philippines.
I’ve lived in the Philippines, travelled across the islands, surfed and dived, and I kept a written record of all these amazing adventures right here on this blog – so have a read and get inspired for your next trip!
(Heads up: I’ve had this blog since I was 21, so some entries might be cringey… haha, enjoy!)
- Flying over Siargao is like watching Earth’s green lungs breathe.
- Philippines: I Made it To Manila
The breeze is warm. I can hear the metallic honks and whistles of the Manila traffic several stories…
- “Trust me,” said Leo, unzipping his surfboard case. “You’re gonna want to wear Crocs.”
- Life was catching up to Roxy and I when a surf trip we were planning to Baler, a…
- Returning to My Roots
Something about London was throwing me off-kilter. I don’t know how or when it began.
- Philippines: Blood and Sunsets in Mabini
Flecks of gold glimmer across the open ocean; the yawning…
- Philippines: Breathing Underwater in Anilao
This weekend I passed my PADI Open Water diving course. One step closer towards exploring all that this…
- Philippines: A Day in San Pablo, My Father’s Home Town
I haven’t really been to San Pablo since I was a little girl, and because of my age…
Bamboo bangka in Coron, Palawan, Philippines
Philippines Travel Guide: Video Guides & Travel Tips
Prefer to see rather than read? I’ve got you!
Check out some of my most popular Philippines videos below.
- Best Weekend Escapes Near Manila
- Most Authentic Things To Do In Manila
Whether you’re planning your first trip to the Philippines or looking to explore deeper into its islands, this guide offers a wealth of information to help you make the most of your journey.
Dive into the detailed posts linked above for everything you need to know about traveling in the Philippines. Happy travels!
The post Philippines Travel Guide: Essential Resources for Your Philippines Adventure appeared first on illumelation.
