Top Places To Visit In The Philippines For Indonesians

Indonesia and Philippines may be an ocean apart, but the two nations share many similarities. Being countries prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis, they are also home to some of the most scenic destinations. It isn’t surprising the both countries regularly welcome tourists from both nationalities, so if you’re an Indonesian looking to visit the Philippines, put your Cebu City Tour on hold for now, because here’s a comprehensive guide to visiting the Philippines as an Indonesian.

Are you in Switzerland or Batanes?

Rolling hills and steep canyons, everything about this place looks like a fairytale but it’s not very well known outside of the Philippines because it’s such a well-kept secret. You might even imagine that you’re in Switzerland sans the cold wind. Touted “Home of the Winds” by the locals that frequent the area, you’ll be blown away by its rustic and untouched beauty.

Tip: If you’re an Instagram fanatic, the Homoron Blue Lagoon must not be missed!

Are you lucky enough to spot a carefree dolphin at Manjuyod Sandbar?

A mesmerizing oasis in Bais City, Manjuyod Sandbar could almost be mistaken for the Maldives. You have everything that Maldives has to offer: pristine white sands and beach shacks along the shore. On the bright side, it’s also much cheaper than a trip to the Maldives.

When you’re there, make sure to board a boat and try your luck at spotting one of the wild dolphins in the area.

Travel back in time in the City of Vigan

There are so many magical destinations in the Philippines that by the end of your trip, you’d have thought you’ve not only traveled the world, you’ve also traveled through time. The City of Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage City, dating back to colonial times when the Spaniads had a stronghold in the province of Ilocos Sur. Utterly romantic and oozing with European vibes, don’t miss the City of Vigan.

Experience a unique blend of culture in Cebu City

Another Spaniardesque city would be Cebu City, but there’s a seamless blend between cultures, offering a diverse variety of food, including various novel food alternatives. While it isn’t exactly foodie heaven, Cebu will give you everything that you could possibly want: beautiful beaches, street food, rich culture and history. The locals have a saying, if you don’t go to Cebu, have you even been to the Philippines?

Pampanga will put you in a food coma every day

Indonesia is home to amazing satay and ayam penyet amongst other local delicacies, but Philippines is no bore either. Pampanga is easily the culinary capital of the Philippines. Here, you can try popular and well-done local dishes such as sisig, a savory dish of pork and chicken liver, aligue, which is crab fat served with fried rice, morcon, spiced chorizo, and many more. If you are adventurous, make sure you try balut, which is basically a fertilized duck egg boiled and consumed whole.

Go up Mount Mayon volcano

For the hikers, Mount Mayon is one of the world’s most beautiful volcanoes due to its perfect symmetry. It is not a hike for the faint of heart or novice hikers as it is a steep and thrilling climb. Before you go, you’ll want to check Mount Mayon’s eruption status because yes – it’s not a sleeping or dead volcano. It’s very much alive and that’s what makes it home to some of the most dazzling sceneries.