Why the Philippines Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List

So, you’re thinking of a trip to the Philippines from India? Trust us, you’re in for a treat. This country is one of those places that completely slips under the radar and then blows you away when you actually land there. Think crystal-clear waters, over 7,000 islands (yep, seven thousand), super friendly locals, and a relaxed vibe that makes you want to toss your itinerary and just live in the moment.

Whether you're a beach bum, an adventure junkie, or someone just looking for a slow-paced escape from city life, there are a dozen reasons why a trip to the Philippines is a must on your bucket-list. So, let’s break it all down so you can plan your trip like a pro and avoid the rookie mistakes.

1. Visa-Free For Indians

The Philippines has introduced two visa-free entry schemes for Indian nationals. This new policy allows Indians to explore the vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and scenic islands of the Philippines without the need for a visa, enhancing the ease of travel between the two nations.

Indian tourists have the option to enter the Philippines visa-free for a period of 14 days, provided their visit is solely for tourism purposes. This short-stay option requires tourists to have a valid passport with at least six months' validity, proof of sufficient funds, confirmed accommodation, a return or onward ticket, and a clean immigration record within the Philippines. It's important to note that this 14-day entry is not extendable and cannot be converted into any other type of visa.

2. Nature That Stuns In Silence

The Philippines doesn’t shout to get your attention — it simply exists in all its jaw-dropping beauty and lets you soak it in at your own pace. With over 7,000 islands scattered like jewels in the sea, this country’s nature is the kind that leaves you speechless without even trying.

You land in a place like Palawan, and suddenly you're questioning if you’ve stepped into a dream. The cliffs rise sharp and dramatic over turquoise lagoons, and tiny beaches peek out from behind jungle-covered rock formations. Locals call it the last frontier — and honestly, they’re not wrong. It still feels untouched, wild in the best way.

Head north to Banaue, and the vibe shifts entirely. The pace slows. The air gets cooler. Here, it’s not beaches but mountains, and instead of palm trees, you’ll see rice terraces carved into the hills by hand centuries ago. It's the kind of place that makes you pause — not just to admire the view, but to think about the generations who lived in sync with the land.

And if you're into the sea, oh boy — you're in the right place. Whether you're a certified diver or someone who just wants to snorkel with a life vest on, there’s magic waiting. Apo Island’s turtles, the surreal corals of Tubbataha, the clarity of the waters off Bohol or Cebu — it’s all next-level. You don’t need to chase beauty here. You just need to be still and let it find you.

3. Some Of The Warmest People You’ll Ever Meet

It’s one thing to visit a beautiful place, but it’s the people who make you want to come back — and in the Philippines, that warmth hits you the moment you arrive. Filipinos don’t just welcome you like a guest; they welcome you like family. It’s genuine, unforced, and deeply rooted in the way life works here.

You might hop into a jeepney looking confused, only to have the driver personally guide you to your stop — maybe even wait until you get off safely. Walk through a local market, and someone will insist you try a bite of mango or a spoonful of halo-halo, “just to taste.” And before you know it, you’re seated in someone’s home, sharing a plate of pancit like you’ve known them forever.

It’s not about impressing you — it’s just how things are. There’s this everyday generosity, a quiet pride in making others feel welcome, that catches you off guard in the best way.

And yes, the fact that most people speak fluent English makes everything easier. But more than that, it makes the connection real. You’re not fumbling through translations or pointing at menus — you’re having actual conversations. Laughing, sharing stories, learning about each other’s worlds.

You won’t feel like just another tourist here. You’ll feel like you belong — even if it’s just for a little while.

4. The Food

Filipino cuisine doesn’t always get the same global hype as Thai or Vietnamese food, but make no mistake — it's deeply satisfying and packed with heart. The flavours are bold, comforting, and often delightfully unpredictable.

Take adobo, a dish where meat is marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then slowly cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Or lechon, a crispy, crackling roast pig that’s the life of every fiesta. Then there’s sinigang, a tangy tamarind soup that’s sour in the most refreshing way possible. Street food? Think grilled everything: skewers of pork, chicken intestines, fish balls — smoky, sweet, savoury, and sold with a smile.

And yes, if you’re adventurous, you might come across balut (a fertilised duck egg). It’s not for everyone, but the locals will cheer you on if you try it. Food here isn’t just sustenance — it’s storytelling, tradition, and togetherness, all in one bite.

5. Budget-Friendly

The Philippines is refreshingly affordable. You don’t need to break the bank to travel well here. Budget accommodations can be found in most destinations, and even more upscale hotels and resorts are often far cheaper than what you'd pay elsewhere in Southeast Asia or the West.

You may lease a boat for island hopping for a fair price, find local transportation (like tricycles or jeepneys) that cost actual cash, and eat a whole grilled seafood feast for the price of a coffee back home.

It's the kind of place where you get value for your money, not simply in terms of price. Without the nagging sense of overspending, you get genuine experiences, deep friendships, and genuine relaxation.

6. Rich Culture

The Philippines is more than simply a tropical paradise; it's a melting pot of culture, history, and heart. There are elements of native island cultures, Spain, and the United States mixed together to create something completely unique. What's the best part? It is present in the streets, the cuisine, the music, and the way people celebrate almost anything, so you don't need to search hard to find it.

Wander through Vigan, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine — cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and churches that have stood for centuries. In Intramuros, the old walled city in Manila, colonial facades mix with the modern chaos of the city. There’s a story around every corner, and locals love telling it.

Then come the festivals — loud, colourful, and completely unfiltered. Ever heard of Sinulog in Cebu or Ati-Atihan in Kalibo? Imagine streets full of people dressed in vibrant, feathery costumes, with drums resonating in the background and strangers dancing together as if they've known each other for ages. These celebrations are a stunning blend of indigenous vitality and Catholic heritage, and they captivate you rather than only providing entertainment.

Music’s a big deal here too. Karaoke? Massive. It’s not just for bars — it’s in backyards, garages, beach huts. And Filipinos can sing. Like, really sing. Don’t be surprised if someone hands you a mic or a guitar — it’s their way of letting you in. And trust me, once you're singing badly with a bunch of new friends under the stars, you'll get it.

7. Sunsets & Island Hopping

There’s something about watching the sun sink into the sea in the Philippines that just hits differently. Maybe it's the sky, which blushes pink and gold in a way that feels unreal. Maybe it's the fact that you’re on a quiet island, drinking in hand, with your toes in the sand and no real agenda.

Island hopping is a must here — each destination offers something different. In Coron, you’ll find shipwreck dives and eerie lagoons. In Siargao, there’s surfing and secret rock pools. In Bohol, you get tarsiers and chocolate hills. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure paradise.

And even beyond the pretty postcards, there are soulful moments: quiet mornings in a mountain village, unplanned conversations with locals, hikes that test you and reward you in equal measure. This is a place where even the in-between moments feel special.

8. Still A Bit Of A Hidden Gem —(And That’s the Magic)

For a country with beaches that look like desktop wallpapers and landscapes that belong in documentaries, the Philippines is still surprisingly under the radar. And honestly? That’s kind of the best thing about it.

While everyone’s queueing up in Bali or Bangkok, you’ll be sipping coconut water on a nearly empty beach in Siquijor, or hiking through Samar’s cave systems without a crowd in sight. Even the more popular spots like El Nido or Boracay still have corners where you can find peace, silence, and the kind of natural beauty that hasn’t been filtered through a hundred Instagram posts.

This isn’t the kind of place where you're constantly stuck behind a line of tourists taking selfies. There's room to breathe here — to wander without a plan, to chat with locals without being rushed, to stumble into hidden waterfalls or quiet stretches of coastline that feel like your own secret.

The Philippines gives you space — space to actually feel something when you travel. To move slowly. To stay longer than you planned. To remember why you fell in love with discovering new places in the first place.

So yeah, it might not be topping every travel guide’s hot list right now. But that just makes it all the more worth going — before the rest of the world figures it out.

Travelling to the Philippines isn’t about seeing a place — it’s about feeling a place. It’s long talks with locals over cold beers, unexpected friendships on ferries, and the sense of being fully present in a world that moves a little slower, a little softer. If you're looking for a trip that feeds your eyes, belly, and soul — go. Book that ticket. The Philippines is ready to welcome you with open arms, a plate of something delicious, and a sunset you’ll never forget.