Traveling to the Philippines Without Manila
While a growing number of tourists want to discover why “it’s more fun in the Philippines”, the questionable reputation of its capital Manila puts many of them off the idea of flying in. The city has faced challenges, including a designation as the “world’s worst airport”, safety concerns, and an ineffective public transport system that can deter potential visitors. However, if you’re crafting a Philippine itinerary that avoids Luzon Island and focuses on the beauty across the archipelago, you can still access the best of the Philippines by following these tips.
Fly Into Cebu
Using Cebu as an entry point, you can effectively arrange a Philippines itinerary that completely skips Manila.
Cebu serves as another major international hub in the Philippines. The Mactan Cebu International Airport (IATA: CEB, ICAO: RPVM) connects the Philippines’ islands with major destinations including Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, and Busan in South Korea, as well as various cities in Japan.
Located centrally in the Philippines’ Visayas island group, Cebu offers easy access to the nation’s top beach destinations. Boracay, Puerto Princesa, and El Nido, Palawan are just short flights away. Furthermore, the scenic island of Bohol is nearby, accessible via a two-hour ferry ride.
Fly to Boracay via Kalibo
Due to Boracay’s increasing popularity among tourists, several regional airlines now operate flights directly to Kalibo International Airport (IATA: KLO, ICAO: RPVK), located two hours from this famous beach destination.
Various budget airlines connect Kalibo to cities like Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Taipei. If Boracay is your first stop in the Philippines, this option allows easier transportation by bus or boat for further travels across the country.
If you’re seeking an adventurous route, consider taking an eight-hour bus ride from Kalibo to Cebu, which encompasses three islands and involves two ferry crossings.
Fly Into Clark Airport
Previously, Manila was the primary point of entry for travelers heading to the picturesque Rice Terraces or the culinary delights of Pampanga, but things have changed. The rising popularity of Clark International Airport (IATA: CRK, ICAO: RPLC) now serves as an excellent alternative.
This former US Air Force base now facilitates low-cost airlines from regional hubs such as Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Doha, and Singapore. From Clark, passengers can take a jeepney to Dau Bus Terminal, where larger buses connect to Baguio and other northern destinations. If traveling south, however, a detour through Manila may be necessary.
Fly Into Manila… but Stick Close to the Airport
In cases where Cebu and Kalibo aren’t feasible options, you can bypass Manila’s notorious traffic by favoring accommodations close to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
NAIA presents challenges, with four unconnected terminals located around an aerodrome in Pasay City. Each terminal is dedicated to different airlines, creating complexities during layovers. Terminal 2 caters exclusively to Philippine Airlines, while international flights span across Terminals 1 and 3.
For those unable to avoid a layover in Manila, it is advisable to stay in a hotel nearby. Terminal 3 provides some of the best mid- to high-end options, including airport lounges and hotels in proximity, while Resorts World offers additional conveniences just across the street.
