Top 5 Philippine Holiday Getaways You Shouldn't Miss

The holidays are coming up! Instead of playing and building massive snowmen in the typical white Christmas snow, in the Philippines, we celebrate by building sandcastles, hopping from island to island, and chilling along the beach. So if this is your first time to visit the country, then we are telling you to pack your bags, take a plane, and start exploring now.

There are tons of great places to explore in the Philippines, from its pristine beaches with fine white sands and turquoise waters to numerous historical sites and local wonders. You're in for one great adventure of a lifetime.

Here are the top 5 holiday getaways you should definitely add to your bucket list.

Batanes

Batanes is unlike any other place--it's almost surreal and magical. It's like stepping into another world, with majestic landscapes serving as a perfect contrast to the quaint lifestyles of the friendly locals here.

• The tiny islands in Batanes are imposing on its own, with wild, angry waves lapping at the craggy cliffs' feet. 
• The emerald hills seem to roll endlessly here. The cobblestone-walled houses with cogon-thatched roofs are also a sight to behold. 
• And there are plenty of other sites to explore. This long list includes World War II memorials, lighthouses, old churches, and the pristine beaches dotting the various islands of Batanes.

El Nido, Palawan

El Nido, Palawan is a tropical beach paradise that remains unspoiled and has to be explored. It's not just the white beaches and crystal clear waters that define this island getaway. You get breathtaking views even under the sea. 

• Its underwater world is truly a wonderland, with hundreds of coral species and fish, among other marine life to marvel at and discover. 
• Its main attractions include the wildlife sanctuary, ravishing inlets, wild jungle, and those overwhelming limestone cliffs that complete the wonderful scenery that is El Nido. 
• But it's not just the beautiful landscape and natural features that make it a top travel destination in the Philippines. Here, you can also enjoy a seafood paradise on plate and dabble in water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. 
• Island-hopping in this seascape is a must if you want to discover its hidden gems.

Cebu

What makes Cebu a popular holiday destination in the country is its wide offerings of fun, adventure, and entertainment.

• Here, you have more than just idyllic white sandy beaches and clear waters to explore. 
• Aside from its world-class diving spots and island-hopping adventures, the beautiful province is also best known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Here, you'll find the oldest churches, historical monuments, museums, and other heritage sites. 
• Fun and entertainment is served in a smorgasbord, with the famous Sky Experience Adventure and with restaurants, casinos, resorts, bars, and clubs turning the province into a hip and modern nightspot.

Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte is the surfing capital of the Philippines, but this doesn't limit the fun and adventure to riding the waves of Cloud 9.

• Even if you're not a surfer, you'll fall in love with this island because of its breathtaking scenery and a wide array of nature's best attractions. 
• There are great white beaches and enchanting lagoons. Caves, stunning rock formations, sand bars, and coral reefs-you can find them all here. 
• The rolling rice fields and majestic waterfalls are also a sight to explore. And then there's the exotic wildlife and mangrove forest reserve. 
• Island hopping at Naked Island, Guyam Island, and Daku Island is a must to make the most of the island adventure. 
• You can also tour around the local villages on a bike and bond with a friendly bunch of locals. 
• Beach bumming is something you couldn't resist, along with a sumptuous plate of fresh seafood.

Vigan, Ilocos Sur

This World Heritage Site in Ilocos Sur will take you back in time. This preserved Hispanic town has age-old structures that are worth revisiting, with a sense of nostalgia. With its cobblestone streets and relic-like setting, it's like you're stepping into another place, another time.

• Among the main attractions of Vigan is its buildings that combine Philippine and Oriental design concepts and feature colonial European architecture. 
• Riding the horse-drawn buggies as you explore the heritage site makes the experience almost surreal. 
• A culinary adventure awaits you here at Vigan. You must definitely try its local Ilocano cuisines, most especially the famous Bagnet. 
• Check out the beautiful vases at The Obelisk, be brave enough to sample the basi, and shop for marvelous wooden carving. 
• Take time to visit the museums, cathedrals, plazas, mansions, and historical sites.