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Philippines

It seems overly dramatic to claim we were trapped in paradise. But that’s how it felt. I felt the Philippines could be summed up in two words: overpriced + underdeliver. Maybe it was the 24 days out of 30 filled with torrential rain (during the dry season I might add), excursion after excursion canceled. Or the 3 weeks I spent with some mild form of food poisoning or digestive discomfort from truly terrible meals. Truthfully, I think the way tourism in the Philippines is structured just isn’t for me. Large groups. Tailored itineraries. Carefully planned “adventure”. 

We found ourselves counting the days until we could leave the Philippines (damn, non-refundable flights), and it was during this time we discovered that if you planned NOTHING, we quite enjoyed the islands. No island hopping, no boat trips, no checking attractions like waterfalls and caves and lagoons off a giant list. Just sitting by a pool or beach, scrounging cheap meals where we could, and hoping for a few rays of sunlight. I’m not going to tell you that you won’t enjoy the Philippines— because I seem to be in the minority when I say I probably won’t be returning to the island nation. 

Despite spending a lot of time in South East Asia, I saw little resemblance in the lifestyle of Filipinos to their geographical neighbors. Instead, I was more reminded of Central America. Cockfighting, gambling, and alcohol. Catholicism is the cornerstone of life. Biblical verses were emblazoned on every tricycle clogging the pot-holed roadways. And I’ve already mentioned the food. Fried chicken and garlic rice for every meal. The losers of last night’s cockfight gotta go somewhere.

The saddest part is I personally don’t see improvement on the horizon for the average Filipino. They have one of the most corrupt governments in the world. Foreign investment continues to gobble up and snatch the island’s resources— pricing locals out of existence. Communities are torn apart by bad habits, the aforementioned unhelpful government, and natural disasters spurned on by climate change. The Philippines undoubtedly hold some of the most beautiful islands and remote beaches on this planet…but reaching them is quite difficult and expensive. 

Or hey, maybe my experience in the country was just poor timing, bad luck, or a combination of the two. Maybe I should have visited more far-flung islands. Believe me, we wanted to. And maybe things will start to look up for the island nation and its friendly residents. I’m only one opinion among thousands on the internet, after all. 

Philippines Travel Guide

Recommended Islands: Coron, Darocotan Island, Siquijor, Siargao, Southern Leyte. This is the itinerary I wish I had managed to make work during my time in the country.

Minimum Recommended Trip Length: 30 days.

One Bucketlist Item You Cannot Miss: Swimming with whale sharks ethically in Southern Leyte. This blog outlines it very well.

Things to Consider Before You Go: Activities in the Philippines are very expensive. As is accommodation when considering the rest of Asia. Enjoying the Philippines is VERY dependent on the weather. I recommend only visiting during the peak season of Late-January – Early March to avoid the rain as much as possible. Climate change has dramatically affected the islands.

Visa Requirements

Free 30-day visa on arrival for Americans. 

Estimated Backpacker Budget

On a Shoestring: $35/day 

Flashpacker: $40/day 

Backpacker Luxury: $70/day+

Keep in mind these are backpacker budgets. On a shoestring expect to be eating street food, sleeping in hostel beds, & skipping the more expensive tourist attractions. Backpacker Luxury opts for private rooms, eats mostly in restaurants, and splurges on activities. Flashpackers are the middle ground & often do a mixture of both.  

The Philippines is for beach people, people who aren’t too fussy about food, and travelers looking to see lots of caves, lagoons, and waterfalls.  

Philippines Blog Posts