Philippines best tourist destinations

We all know travel is best when you have some kind of insiders' tips about what to see, do, eat, and what to avoid, as well. Because I am a Filipino and I have traveled all over the Philippines, I've had a lot of time and experience to test and refine my top 10 list of destinations. So if you're planning a trip to the Philippines, this article will help you make your trip even better!

#10: Tagaytay

If you're looking for a colder place near metro Manila (which is the capital of the Philippines), Tagaytay is the right place for you.

You can reach the beautiful Tagaytay with a short 2-3 hour car ride from the capital. This spot is known for its delicious food like bulalo, or bone marrow, and halayang ube, purple yam jam. The best place for eating these foods is at the Tagaytay Picnic Grove where you can breathe the fresh air and take in the famous sight of the Taal volcano, one of the most popular and active volcanoes in the Philippines. While there, if you want to see the lake, just ask a tricycle driver outside the Picnic Grove, and they will take you on a scenic ride. If you are planning to stay overnight, there are many resorts and hotels, as well.

#9: La Union

La Union, a province of the Philippines located in the Ilocos region on Luzon Island, is known for its beautiful beaches, so if you are seeking water adventures, this is the place to go.

If you just want to relax, swim, snorkel, or find some child-friendly waves, La Union offers many low-key pleasures, but if you want to do some surfing, La Union has that, too. The local people there are very friendly and there are many excellent cooks so don't forget to taste some local Ilocano food.

#8: Puerto Galera

Puerto Galera, located about 130 kilometers south of Manila at the southwestern end of the Isla Verde Passage, offers a mix of water adventure and camping fun. The island is surrounded by warm water and the beach is great: you'll find banana boats, jet skis, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and much more. Plus, when night comes, the beach is still happening so you can bar hop and meet new people. Then, because the island is overlooked by lush mountains, if you get tired of the beach, you can go visit the mountains and forests and maybe do some overnight camping: the best of both worlds.