Forbes has listed The Philippines as one of seven countries with the potential to become major travel destinations once COVID-19 is contained. The Philippines offers unique experiences for all kinds of tourists looking for a relaxed and laid-back getaway from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives.
Borocay is one of the five places worth seeing. The island of Boracay is one of the most famous and most awarded in the world, with its white sand, sparkling blue waters, and the warm and welcoming sun waiting for visitors to set foot in this island paradise. Boracay has also been awarded the SafeTravels Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) in recognition of its adoption of “health and hygiene global standardized protocols” that will ensure safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bacolod, the capital city of the province of Negros Occidental – fondly referred to as the sugar capital of The Philippines, cosmopolitan tastes come together with rustic living. Negros Occidental is known as the Philippines' organic farm capital, with its various haciendas serving as sustainable agri-tourism destinations, such as FreshStart Organic Farm, the Peñalosa Farms, and the Rapha Valley Place of Wellness, among others.
Baguio and Benguet are referred to as “The City of Pines”, Baguio is a chartered city at a 6-hour drive from Manila. With its pine trees and cool weather, Baguio has always been a respite for Filipinos looking for a break from the heat.
Also, one of Baguio's most popular go-to spots is the Bencab Museum, which offers the sight of some of the masterpieces of National Artist for Visual Arts Ben Cabrera. Meanwhile, Benguet is also a reputed sustainable tourism destination that gives tourists a visual 101 on the history and culture of the indigenous Igorot tribe while supporting their livelihood. Baguio is also a recipient of the WTTC Safe Travels Stamp, guaranteeing safety and minimal risk to travellers visiting the city once tourism reopens.
Also, new in surrounding Benguet are eco- and agri-tourism destinations like Armando's Lemon Farm and Polig Berry Farm. With activities like lemon and strawberry picking activities, guests can reconnect with nature by enjoying its fruitful bounty first-hand. These eco-tourism destinations help preserve the environmental and agricultural wonders of the beautiful mountain city.
Lastly, Batangas are a hit with tourists as the ideal season happens from November to May, there is a big window for adventure seekers from all over the world to dive into an unforgettable under-the-sea adventure. The dive sites in Anilao are also well-documented marine conservation areas, with numerous efforts being done to protect the reefs and ecosystem, as well as to shore up the livelihood of the local communities.
To ensure safe travels for future visitors of the country, the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the direction of the Philippine Secretary of Tourism, Berna Romulo-Puyat, has actively implemented new public health and safety guidelines and protocols for the future influx of tourists.