Tourist Attractions You Probably Didn’t Know Were In The Philippines

The Philippines is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world.
The Philippines is mostly in the news for its unforgiving climate, especially typhoons that have been wreaking havoc on many of its islands including Leyte and Cebu over the past few years.
The country also made headlines earlier this year when Pope Francis came to visit the nation regarded as Asia’s largest Catholic population as part of a week-long tour.
However, there is much – much – more to the Philippines than just visits from the pope or natural disasters.It’s a beautiful country with some of the most attractive – yet underrated – as well as economical tourist destinations on the planet.
 In fact, Forbes listed Dumaguete, a city in the Philippine province of Negros Oriental, as one of the top 7 best places to retire around the world.

Guimaras

The Philippines government bills Guimaras as “the perfect respite to escape the urban bustle.”

Apart from being the place where you can find the sweetest mangoes on the planet, Guimaras is also “a blissful blending of community-based rural tourism, educational and heritage sites, island-hopping and sightseeing attractions.”

Ilocos

This province is a heaven of both natural and man-made tourist spots including Sinking Bell Tower, Lapaz Sand Dunes, Paoay Church, Playa Tropical Resort and Marcos Museum and Mausoleum.

Batanes

Batanes is known as an area with nearly zero crime rate. However, it’s also home to some of the best restaurants in the Philippines, rich culture and beautiful scenery.

Some of the must-visit spots here include, Chawa Viewdeck, Marlboro Country, Mahayaw Arch, Valugan Boulder Beach. Also, do not forget to marvel at the Churches and lighthouses of Batanes.

Pagsanjan Falls

The Pagsanjan Falls are one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines located in the province of Laguna. According to the official web site of the Department of Tourism:

“To get to the falls, take the scenic one-hour boat ride that takes you up the Bumbungan and Balanac Rivers. Two boatmen will help navigate your wooden canoe past trees, vines, bush and local wildlife. The river ride back down is a thrilling ride that passes 14 rapids.”

Iloilo

Another tourist spot rich in culture and history, Iloilo is often referred to as the “Heart of the Philippines.”

"Historical records attest to the fact that Iloilo City had been a prominent place hosting the religious-political power of the Spanish Authority during the colonial period," states the official website of the government of Iloilo city.

Also, if you’re a beach lover, you’re in for a treat. Boracay, Bolobadiangan, Antonia and Tambaliza beaches are some of the most famous beaches in the city.

Apo Island

A volcanic area in the Negros Oriental, Apo Island is considered one of the world's best known community-organized marine sanctuaries.

Snorkelling and diving here is a must for tourists.

Pico de Loro in Batangas

Here you will find some of the best beach homes just 90 minutes from Manila.

Apart from these beautiful resorts in the province of Batangas travelers should visit the Anilao diving spots, Calatagan Mangrove Forest Conservation Park, Taal Lake and Volcano and Tingloy shoreline.

                  Taal Lake, Talisay and San Nicolas Batangas

Make sure to add all of these to your travel bucket list.