Traveling around the world can be everyone’s dream; however, not all people have the capacity to fulfill this goal due to various reasons.
Fortunately, Filipinos will not have to travel outside of the country to see world-class scenery because the Philippines has local places that have almost the same features as foreign tourist destinations!
To give you a gist of where you can start your revenge travel this year, here’s a list of numerous “foreign-like” tourist spots in the country.
1. Calauit Safari Park, Palawan
A 3,700-hectare island off the coast of the island province of Palawan will make you feel like you have traveled to Africa.
Calauit Safari Park, also known as “Little Africa,” is one of the country’s reserves and wildlife sanctuaries and is home to various wildlife species, namely exotic African and Endemic Palawan Flora and Fauna.
Giraffes, Calamian deer, monkeys, freshwater crocodiles, zebras, bear cats, bushbuck, and a variety of birds are also present in the sanctuary.
2. Fortune Island, Batangas
Want to take a trip to Greece without dealing with visa problems? Then this one’s for you.
Located in the city of Batangas, the 27 hectare Fortune Island will make you feel like one of the Greek gods and goddesses from mythology!
Besides its beautiful location, the island also has Parthenon-inspired pillars, old columns, and sculptures of Greek deities that give off mythical vibes.
3. Batanes
Despite being the smallest province in the Philippines with a land area of 230 square kilometers, Batanes is still a place of wonder.
Batanes, bounded on the north by the Bashi Channel, east by the Pacific Ocean, west by the West Philippine Sea, and south by the Balintang Channel, is surely the most sought-after tourism destination.
Batanes does not only give you a feeling of wanderlust, but it will also give you a New Zealand-like view because of its breathtaking view of the mountains.
4. La Paz Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte
The sand dunes in Ilocos Norte are an 85-square-kilometer desert that is commonly visited by tourists because of its views and thrilling activities.
The Desert of the North is also called Bantay Bimmaboy, as the whole area resembles the shape of a pig. The sand dunes were created through the interaction between the sea, wind, and river that cause deposition and erosion.
With how beautiful these sand dunes are, it wouldn’t be a surprise if travelers thought it was the famous Namib Desert in Africa.
5. Hinatuan Enchanted River, Surigao Del Sur
For people who like clear water views, this tourist spot in Surigao del Sur should be on your list!
As mysterious as its name is, this 600-meter-long river is along the coastline of Hinatuan Bay, which faces the Pacific Ocean. With its crystal clear water and blue to green hues, you’d think it was an edited photograph.
Evidently, this is one of the must-see attractions in Surigao del Sur because of its breathtaking view, just like in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.
6. Magpupungko Rock Pools, Siargao
Ever seen a unique natural rock pool in the Philippines? Sitting on the east coast of Siargao Island, this beautiful and dense rock pool will surely keep you in awe.
Exhibiting its crystal-clear blue water, coves, caves, and cliffs, your visit will be worth it, but just make sure to visit the natural rock pool during low tide.
Through the 40-minute drive from General Luna to Siargao, you will be able to have the same experience as in Thassos, Greece.
7. Amanpulo, Palawan
Do you dream of going to the Maldives but don’t want to travel far? Well, Amanpulo in Palawan will surely satisfy your dream.
With its white, fine-sand beaches and clear water, you will feel like the Maldives has brought you closer. Famous for its scenic beauty and impressive amenities, this place is perfect for your island getaway.
8. Bamboo Eco Park, Baguio
Experience visa-free travel to Japan in Baguio City! With multi-level unpaved walkways, the Bamboo Eco Park allows you to walk around and appreciate the beauty of nature through these bamboo sightings.
Because of its Japan-like vibes, this Bamboo Eco Park was commonly referred to as “little Kyoto” by locals and tourists.
9. Kaparkan Falls, Abra
If you want to see a unique tourist attraction, then Kaparkan Falls is for you!
Kaparkan, or Mulawin Falls, is a terrace of waterfalls that is regulated by the government as a prime tourist destination in Tineg, Abra.
Upon visiting the site, it is strictly implemented that a maximum of 100 people per three hours will be allowed to enter the premises. This is to ensure that nature isn’t abused and is taken care of properly.
Enjoy the blue and deep basin-like pool in Kaparkan Falls that looks like the famous Pamukkale thermal pools in Turkey.
10. Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar, Bataan
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar exhibits the best of Filipino heritage, craftsmanship, and service, all while being a beach resort, convention center, and heritage destination in one.
The houses displayed were evenly renovated and rebuilt by Filipino artisans and craftsmen, allowing it to be one of the most unique destinations in Bataan.
Although the place blends in with the charm and character of the Philippines’ past, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar also resembles the beautiful city of Venice.
Now that you have a list of foreign-looking Philippine destinations, what are you waiting for? Call out your friends and family and plan a quick get-away trip to enjoy these amazing places in the country.
