25 Philippine Destinations to Visit When Covid-19 Pandemic is Over

By vivomigsgee in Features Travel April 16, 2020

At this point, it is difficult to imagine that one has not heard of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as media, both print and digital, provide daily updates of its rapid spread since early 2020. Covid-19 has unforgivably ripped its way through the world, wreaking havoc to the lives and businesses in its wake, and one of the sectors that is facing an existential threat is the travel industry.

Do you know what it means to be a traveler in the face of a pandemic? It’s both scary and heartbreaking. I experienced this first hand during my risky tri-country trip last February amidst the Covid-19 threat. It was fine then, but the tide has turned at this moment. It pains me to say this: now is not the best time to travel. As nations around the world implement travel bans and other strict measures to contain the disease, breaking away from what we are accustomed to ~ explore new places (and failure thereof) ~ is even shattering. But amid all the fear and uncertainty, there is hope, unity and love around the world that’s stronger than Covid-19 itself.

In spite of the fact that most of us are confined to our homes right now due to enhanced community quarantine (or lockdown for some areas), we are all finding ways to stay connected, uplifted, and inspired. Even though we can’t physically travel right now, it doesn’t mean we have to come to a stop. Because even while reading this, your travel spirit is with you.

No one knows when will Covid-19 be finally over. But when this pandemic ends, traveling is one of the activities people would definitely do. And I can’t state this lightly ~ spend vacation in the Philippines, explore local tourist destinations, eat local cuisines, support homegrown products and help take our country’s economy forward. With this article, satiate your wanderlust virtually as I trot out twenty-five (25) Philippine destinations to visit when Covid-19 pandemic is over:

1. Cebu

An island province in the Philippines, with a capital city of the same name a.k.a. the “Queen City of the South”, Cebu lives up to its expectation as it steadily draws a lot of tourists with a goal to experience what it has to offer. One’s trip to and around Cebu will not be complete without a day hike or overnight camping in various mountain peaks or a splash or two to some of Cebu’s natural waterscapes such as waterfalls and beaches. Cebu is such a big hodgepodge of world-class wonders and activities, awaiting to be experienced by everyone – adrenaline junkie, eco-tourist, religious devotee or plain weekend warrior.

2. Bohol

With the on-going pandemic, summer 2020 is but a dream. My summer breaks back in college would not be complete without a countryside visit in the island province of Bohol. Bohol offers discerning travelers a wealth of options both on and off the beaten track. Aside from the pristine white beaches around Panglao Island and famous Chocolate Hills and tarsiers near Tagbilaran, Bohol is also home to the lesser known tourist spots like Anda and Danao and of course some of its hidden gems found in Bien Unido and Jagna awaiting to be discovered.

3. Boracay

When it comes to beautiful destination rankings, Boracay surely tops the list not just in the Philippines, but also around the world. Boracay has consistently been recognized by various media and travel companies globally as one of the “Best Islands in the World”. And rightfully so, Boracay’s superb long powdery white sand beaches, clear azure waters and surreal sunset views are to die for. Go island hopping or bar hopping, Boracay got you covered. Facilities for water sports activities such as sailing, wind surfing, snorkeling, diving and jet skiing are also widely available for those in search of more active pursuits.

4. Negros

The island of Negros is composed of two notable provinces ~ Negros Occidental (with Bacolod, a highly urbanized city, as its capital) and Negros Oriental with its capital, Dumaguete City. Negros has a lot of tourist attractions, as well as popular Festivals (Masskara and Buglasan, among others) being celebrated in various areas of the island. May it be beaches, diving spots, island destinations, sandbars, waterfalls, lakes or highland attractions, Negros never fail to amaze both locals and tourists alike.

5. Coron

The natural beauty of Coron is beyond words. Coron is known for its awe-inspiring karst limestones, clear blue waters, pale white beaches and best diving spots. It is part of the Calamian Group of Islands in the Province of Palawan in the Philippines. It surely lives up to every traveler’s fantasy of being a picturesque paradise with a wide array of activities you can indulge.

6. Bukidnon

Bukidnon is a landlocked province located in the Northern Mindanao region. Occupying a wide plateau up north and characterized by mountainous topography in the southern and eastern boundaries, the name “Bukidnon” means “highlander” or “mountain dweller”. Most of the notable tourist attractions in Bukidnon include, but not limited to the following: pineapple plantation, a mountain ridge for hikers and an upland adventure park, offering an array of fun and thrilling activities for the whole family, and for all ages.

7. Dinagat

Dinagat Islands is an underrated destination in the country, I must say. This young island-province in the northeastern tip of Mindanao has its fair share of idyllic spots, but there’s nothing like a raw Dinagat getaway, the crème de la crème of your holiday adventure! Dinagat Islands has a multitude of fascinating white sandy beaches with arrays of colossal rock formations and natural wonders such as Bitaug Beach, Campintac Black Beach, Lake Bababu, Libjo Blue Lagoon and a lot more.

8. Ifugao

Man-made attractions yet showcasing beautiful craftsmanship of local tribesmen as part of daily life ~ welcome to Ifugao! Massive view of verdant rice terraces up north are worth a visit – for the simple reason that it’s a world-class heritage. If you plan to have a unique nature trip for a change, bask in the history of Philippines and just take in what nature has to offer in Ifugao province. Take Batad Rice Terraces, for example. You can never go wrong with non-touristy natural wonder right at the foot of the Cordillera Mountain Ranges.

9. Antique

Antique is not as popular as its neighboring province, Aklan, in terms of tourism. However, any traveler could surely find excitement in discovering many stunning views and natural wonders that abound in this province. Pula Waterfalls feature unique red-tinted water cascades. Sunset viewing and sandbar experience at Malalison Island are like hitting two birds with one stone. Mt. Madia-as offers a lush mountain scenery, abounding with numerous flora and fauna species. Tibiao offers white water kayaking and even “kawa” hot bath activity. Book a flight to Kalibo or Iloilo and head to Antique because there’s a lot more to experience in this under the radar province.

10. Davao

You might probably heard of Davao as the hometown of the current Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, or the fact that it is home to the tasty durian fruit or even associate it with diverse outdoor destinations for daredevils. Whatever “D” that is, Davao (regardless of whether pertaining to the city or the region) has so much to offer with its plethora of attractions, and you can have a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) trip without necessarily breaking the bank.

11. Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro has a special spot in this listicle for its cool activities it offers. One of which is may favorite travel adventure to date ~ the White Water Rafting. The Cagayan de Oro river is the best white water rafting destination in Mindanao. Its cool rushing waters will relax and energize you all at the same time. Waters splashing and slamming against boulders will remind you of nature’s powerful effect on life. While much of Cagayan’s relatively sustainable tourism may be overshadowed by its neighboring towns, the city is also the base for outdoor adventures such as hiking, waterfalls chasing and rock climbing.

12. Baguio

Baguio is a favorite go-to destination by most tourists when searching for a chilly place beyond the capital that is affordable and packed with lots of fun activities and refreshing sceneries. Baguio, to many, is best known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”, with its cool climate making this a spot to escape the chaotic scenes in the metro. The city is also home to tropical pine forests, lending the city the nickname “City of Pines”. It serves as a tourist hub in the Cordilleras, serving as a jumping point to other tourist spots in the highland destinations in the country.

13. Camiguin

Camiguin Island is what vacation goals are made of. Verdant mountains to explore, white sand beaches to play on, turquoise water to splash around in, waterfalls to chase, sunken cemetery to view sunset, volcanoes to hike, giant clams to see underwater, various spring to cool off, food to devour and more. Best of all, there aren’t too many tourists here to get in your way! Just an hour boat-ride away from Balingoan, Misamis Oriental, the natural beauty of this so-called “Island Born of Fire” awaits every holidaymakers around the world.

Camiguin Travel Guide: Let’s Go Local and Come Again to Camiguin

14. Biliran

Way back 2010, Biliran may be one of the Philippine destinations that is less traveled, probably because people didn’t know it existed. Well, thanks to intrepid travelers who are willing to level up the adventure game and put beautiful spots in the country on the map. Biliran, an island province in Eastern Visayas, may be small in size but it is big in potential and tourism value for its natural wonders. Interesting activities are as follows: beach bumming in Sambawan Island, trekking at Iyusan rice terraces in Almeria, and waterfall chasing in Biliran, discovering Acaban Cave, go sandbar hopping at Hilantagaan and a lot more.

15. Puerto Princesa

When the pandemic is over, Puerto Princesa is one of 25 Philippine destinations I would like to visit. A first class highly urbanized city and capital city of Palawan, Puerto Princesa is the gateway to Underground River, Honda Bay, Crocodile Farm, Mitras’s Ranch and stunning islands around Palawan, from the azure waters of Balabac to idyllic tropical island-paradise of El Nido.

16. Guimaras

Guimaras, a tiny province just off the coast of Iloilo City in Panay Island, is more than just sweet mangoes. Go island hopping around Guimaras coast and visit Ave Maria Island, SEAFDEC, Baras cave and Lamurawan Island. Should you opt for an inland tour, you may include these activities in your itinerary: see the smallest plaza, visit the trappist monastery, swim in Alibuhod beach, appreciate the ruins at Guisi Lighthouse, marvel at the windmills at San Lorenzo Wind Farm and eat mango pizza at Pitstop Restaurant. Apart from its world-class mangoes, pristine beaches and diverse resources, the province of Guimaras has a rich history that is worth sharing with your loved ones.

17. Surigao

Naturally, vacationers and locals alike find it a must to visit Surigao for its famed tourist spots. Marvel at the clear blue waters of Enchanted River in Hinatuan, hop your way to the beautiful Britannia Islands, go cowabangga in surfer’s paradise, Siargao Island, explore Sohoton at Bucas Grande Island, enjoy the scenery at Mabua Pebble Beach, chase Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, experience the natural wave pool at Laswitan, tread your soles in the white sand beaches of Cagwait, and dip your bodies at Malinawa Cool Spring in Cantilan.

18. Leyte

The island of Leyte is divided into two provinces: Leyte and Southern Leyte. Famous for its role in the reconquest of the Philippines in World War II, Leyte houses in its provincial capitol a mural depicting the First Mass in the Philippines, believed to have happened in Limasawa, and the landing of General Douglas MacArthur. Interesting sites include Lake Danao (a violin-shaped lake hemmed by cloud-capped mountain ranges), Kalanggaman Island in Palompon (a virgin island with pure white sand), the San Juanico Bridge (the longest bridge in the Philippines) and other stunning islets surrounding around the region.

19. Siquijor

Fond of otherworldly places that is filled with supernatural stories and paranormal tales? Head to Siquijor Island. Siquijor is commonly associated with mystic traditions that the island’s growing tourism industry capitalizes on. Siquijor may be known for magic and sorcery but it is actually full of natural spots as a playground for adventure seekers. Among the many attractions are the beaches, caves, waterfalls, Bandila‑an natural park and butterfly sanctuary. The most popular of them are the Cambugahay Falls Salagdoong Beach and the old Balete tree.

20. Samar

Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines situated in the eastern-most part of the Visayas. It is divided into three provinces: Samar (the western two-fifths of the island of Samar), Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar with Catarman, Catbalogan City and Borongan City as its capital, respectively. Samar has several tourism potentials that remain undiscovered by tourists. Some of these include old churches, waterfalls, rivers, rugged coastline of limestone cliffs, caves, virgin forests, lagoons, tidal pool and beaches.

21. Zamboanga

Zamboanga Peninsula is an administrative region in the Philippines, consisting of three provinces (Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Sur). Zamboanga City is a flagship tourism destination in Zamboanga Peninsula, with its famous Pink Sand Beach of Santa Cruz recognized by the National Geographic as one of the “World’s Best Beaches” in 2018. Other notable cities are as follows: Dapitan, known for old St. James Parish, beach resort of Dakak and the place where Jose Rizal, the National Hero, was exiled. Dipolog, capital of Zamboanga del Norte, is known for wild orchids, boulevard, Sungkilaw Falls and Linabo Peak. Further, Pagadian and Buluan Island in Sibugay are also tourist hot spots.

22. Ilocos

Ilocos occupies the Northwestern section of Luzon. Ilocos Norte is known for the following tourist spots: the La Paz Sand Dunes, Malacañang of the North, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Bangui Wind Farm, Saud Beach in Pagudpud, and Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos. Ilocos Sur, on the other hand, houses two UNESCO heritage sites: (1) The Heritage City of Vigan, the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia and (2) Santa Maria Church, unique architectural style of which is a reinterpretation of European Baroque by Chinese and Philippine craftsmen.

23. Batangas

Truth be told, what I originally thought as a mere postcard-perfect backdrop when in Tagaytay is actually a popular tourist destination of itself that offers extreme activities and stunning natural views. While there are many stories to tell behind this snapshot (including its recent eruption), one realization that struck me the most is that Taal Volcano Island is not located in Tagaytay, rather in Talisay, Batangas. Mindblown! And oh, as Batangas is one of the most popular tourist destinations near Metro Manila, you may plan a trip back in time at Fortune Island, enjoy diving in Anilao, do some day hike in Mt. Batulao or love the natural ambiance of Calaruega.

24. Sagada

Where do broken hearts go? Sagada is the answer! Popularly featured in the hit romantic comedy movie “That Thing Called Tadhana”, fall in love with the beautiful spots in Sagada such as Echo Valley, Bumud-ok Falls and Kiltepan Viewpoint. If you’re eyeing a unique subterranean journey, try cave connection and experience a thrill-filled caving expedition. If tight-crawling caves or marveling at century-old hanging coffins is not for you, you might want to go on a food trip and try the delicious lemon pie in Sagada Lemon Pie House or re-enact some “kilig” scenes in Gaia Café.

25. Batanes

Ending this list with every traveler’s dream destination ~ Batanes. Verdant rolling hills, century-old lighthouses, traditional stone houses, ‘Blow Ur Horn’ signages and the list goes on. Awe-inspiring many tourist for years, Batanes is the northernmost and smallest province of the Philippines and among the sought-after tourism frontier destinations located at the confluence of the West Philippine Sea and Pacific Ocean.

Responsible Tourism

Let me remind everyone to be a responsible traveler. No matter how beautiful the place is, if the people visiting it are irresponsible or without due regards to the property being visited, then its tourism activities cannot be sustained. This is to remind every tourist when visiting a tourist spot to respect the place and consume tour activities in a more responsible way so that a healthy relationship will be created by making better places for people to live in and better places for people to visit.

Sustainability principles defined “Responsible Tourism” as a practice of doing business by attracting, accommodating, and entertaining people who travel which aims to minimize negative social, economic and environmental impacts, generate greater economic benefits for local people and enhance the well-being of host communities. In other words, it encourages respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local consensus and confidence for a sustainable future.

Wherever you go, may you be guided by the “Leave No Trace” Principle, to wit: “Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.” Mother Earth’s natural creation or man-made attractions are not ours to destroy so better respect and preserve the place and most importantly, exercise responsible tourism.

Support PH Economy, Go Local

I can’t predict when you’ll be able to resume that postponed holiday, but all I can share with you is some positive content such as images showing about how beautiful the Philippines is, encourage you to help our country get back on its feet and inspire your wanderlust so you’ll be ready to take that trip as soon as it’s safe to do so ~ when the Covid-19 pandemic is over.

For now, relax those itchy feet for we can only dream about our next trips while staying at home. However, let’s not forget to help and pray for the people in need, especially our frontliners (e.g., health workers, bank and grocery staff, security and utility personnel, etc.) and fast recovery of those patients positive with Covid-19.

Remember, travel is life, but health is lifer. Don’t live to travel, but travel to live. There’s no doubt we’ll make it through this unprecedented health crisis in solidarity, and – when the time is right – you’ll be the first one to get back out there and tick off all those places in your travel bucket list.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone. =)