Philippines is one of the emerging countries in Southeast Asia, a gorgeous collection of thousands of islands, fascinating history, and enviable nature, all presented by some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. To learn more about the Philippines, we talked to Marieflor Tanfelix, a Goway Team Lead and native Filipino, who shared some of her tips and tricks for getting the most out of a Philippines vacation.
What is your favourite place to visit?
Manila remains my favourite place to visit in the Philippines. Although some people are daunted by its heavy traffic and dense population (it’s considered the most densely-populated city in the world), it has its charms for visitors due to the mix of heritage and modern supercity vibes. I love spending time at Manila Bay at the end of the day to watch the sunset.
What’s a great place to eat?
Funnily enough, the Michelin Guide has finally arrived in Philippines and amplified the local restaurant scene. Manam at the Triangle, located in Makati City in Manila, is a great dining option to try authentic Filipino cuisine. Its menu features a whole assortment of breakfast, lunch, merienda (snack), and dinner options, as well as a good selection of local drinks.
What’s a unique way to experience the Philippines?
I always think it’s best to mix popular sights with smaller, local experiences. Aside from going to the beach or visiting famous landmarks, I encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the local routine by taking public transportation, dining where locals eat, joining island hopping tours, or even attending a town fiesta or festival if the timing works out.
What’s a hidden gem that more people should know about?
Bonbon Beach in Romblon. The province of Romblon is comprised of several islands that have white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters and superb snorkelling spots.
What’s a famous landmark that people shouldn’t miss?
The Intramuros (means "within the walls") in Manila, which is a historic walled district in the city built by the Spaniards in the late 16th century. Inside the walled city you’ll find San Agustin Church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When’s the best time to visit?
December to February, simply because this period is very festive. We take Christmas and New Year's Day seriously. You'll see almost all households, commercial buildings, and shopping malls lit up with Christmas lights as early as September, and this goes on until the first Sunday of January. If you're keener to soak up Vitamin D, then visiting in summer would be ideal (March-May). However, be prepared for some hot and humid days during this time.
What’s something more travellers should know about the Philippines?
If travellers want to explore the Philippines by land, it’s much more convenient to do so with the introduction of express highways throughout much of the country. For instance, from Manila, you can travel north to Baguio, then to Ilocos Norte (where the Vigan Heritage Village can be found) or south to Batangas, where great beach resorts and luxury wellness properties can be found, then on to Quezon Province.
What’s a common misconception?
There are two main misconceptions people have about the Philippines. The first is that it’s not safe to visit. It’s actually very safe for visitors. Locals are very hospitable, warm, friendly, and ready to help.
The second is that there are limited food options in the Philippines. The cuisine is remarkably varied. You can enjoy everything from sinigang (tamarind-based soup) to sisig (sizzling minced meat), ensaymada (brioche bread with butter and sugar) to sago't gulaman (a drink with grass jelly and chewy pearls), to name some diverse options. You'll never go hungry in my home country.
You might say that Aren was destined to become a globetrotter after his family took him to Germany two times before he was four. If that wasn’t enough, a term spent in Sweden as a young teenager and a trek across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand confirmed that destiny. An independent writer, director, and film critic, Aren has travelled across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America. His favourite travel experience was visiting the major cities of Japan’s largest island, Honshu, but his love for food, drink, and film will take him anywhere that boasts great art and culture.
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