Philippines for Every Type of Traveler

The Philippines is a paradise for adventurers and independent travelers — but families and couples will also find what they're looking for. Here's an overview:

🎒 Backpackers & Budget Travelers

The Philippines is one of the cheapest travel destinations in Asia. Simple accommodations from 500 PHP (8 €), street food from 50 PHP (0.80 €), island-hopping tours from 1,200 PHP (20 €). With 1,500–2,500 PHP (25–40 €) per day, you can get by very well. The backpacker infrastructure is excellent: hostels, motorcycle rentals, cheap ferries, and buses.

🤿 Divers & Snorkelers

The Philippines is located in the Coral Triangle — the epicenter of marine biodiversity. PADI Open Water from 15,000 PHP (~245 €), fun dives from 1,500 PHP (~25 €). Top spots: Tubbataha Reef (Palawan), Apo Reef, Malapascua (thresher sharks), Coron (wrecks), Moalboal (sardines), Apo Island (turtles). The visibility is excellent, the prices unbeatable.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families

Filipinos love children — your kids will be adored everywhere. Panglao (Bohol) and El Nido offer family-friendly beaches with shallow water and good accommodations. The Chocolate Hills are fascinating for children, the Tarsier Sanctuary educational. Note: Long ferry rides and bumpy roads can be tiring with small children.

💑 Couples & Honeymooners

Private beachfront huts in El Nido from 3,000 PHP (49 €), sunset boat tours, deserted islands just for you. The Philippines has an unparalleled romance: sunsets over limestone backdrops, bioluminescence in the sea at night, fresh fish grilled right on the beach.

🏄 Surfers

Siargao is the undisputed surf capital. Cloud 9 offers perfect barrels, but there are also gentler waves for beginners (Jacking Horse, Stimpy). La Union in Northern Luzon is the surf spot closest to Manila. Surfboard rental from 300 PHP (5 €)/hour, surf lessons from 500 PHP (8 €).