I’m lucky to call this beautiful country home. And really—how could I not fall in love with travel when the Philippines has 7,107 islands, and no two look the same?

This is where it all started for me. I learned that the world is full of kind people, that you don’t need a lot of money to explore, and that the most magical moments are often the simplest—like riding a tricycle through rice fields or catching the sunset on a motorbike.

These guides are filled with my favorite islands and local tips to help you explore the place that, even after years of traveling, is still the most beautiful to me.

PHILIPPINES TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

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Best Time to Go

Nov–May | Avoid July–Oct (typhoon season)

How Long

5 days to 3 weeks (min 3 days/ island)

Daily Budget

₱1,500–₱2,500/day
($25–$45)

Getting There

Fly to Manila, Cebu, or Clark (less hectic)

Philippine visa

30-day free visa on arrival. Can be extended.

PHILIPPINES eSIM

Must-have for remote areas. $3 off code: GLADIS1238

travel insurance

Get one. Don’t count on public healthcare here.

Philippines Custom Itinerary

[Coming Soon]

Explore by Islands & Provinces

Scenic view of the pristine beach at The Lind Boracay, a Boracay boutique resort, lined with tall palm trees and turquoise beach umbrellas, overlooking the crystal-clear waters.

The World-famous White Beach

Boracay

Island paradise of lagoons and limestone cliffs

Palawan

black-island-in-busuanga

A silver jeepney with chrome detailing and “GODGIFT” painted on the back drives through a busy street in Manila, Philippines.

The capital city. history, chaos, and culture.

Manila

The city of pink sand beaches

Zamboanga

Me standing on a sandy beach next to a colorful traditional vinta boat with a vibrant sail in red, green, blue, and yellow patterns. This is vinta, one of the tourists pots in Zamboanga