Four Reasons to Visit the Philippines
I can honestly say, with no exaggeration, that the Philippines changed my life path. There are, of course, many reasons to visit the Philippines, but today I’ve managed to constrain myself to just four – I hope you enjoy!
Unique Wildlife
The Philippines is home to a variety of unique animals, with the Tarsier probably being the most famous. This tiny primate, about the size of your fist, possesses enormous eyes, making it irresistibly cute. Another fascinating creature is the Philippine Mouse-Deer. This unusual animal has the head of a mouse, the body resembling a guinea pig, and legs similar to those of a deer. Interestingly, it’s neither a mouse nor a deer, showcasing the delightful quirks of the region’s wildlife. Additionally, meet the Palawan Bearcat, which also boasts neither qualities of a bear nor a cat, yet is aptly named as it resembles both.
Vegan-Friendly Options
Although one might think that maintaining a vegan lifestyle in the Philippines could be difficult due to the cuisine’s heavy influence from both the USA and Spain, there’s hope! The local cuisine offers a variety of exotic fruits that can be found in abundance. For those adventurous enough, it’s occasionally possible to pick the fruits straight off the tree. I fondly remember watching someone hack a coconut off a tree in the Philippines, creating a memorable experience.
Moreover, staples such as rice and some accidentally vegan snacks like Oreos can serve as essentials. In recent years, restaurants have started to recognize the demand for animal-free options. For instance, I came across a delicious tofu version of Adobo in Boracay, which was a delightful surprise! Traditional Filipino dishes like atchara papaya, ensaladang talong, and lumpiang gulay also cater to vegan diets.
Island-Hopping Adventures
The country comprises around 7,107 islands, making it a remarkable destination for island-hopping adventures. Each island offers unique experiences, and what you might not enjoy about one could be completely different on another. Most islands boast stunning beaches, ensuring a picturesque setting wherever you go. Navigating between the islands is easy, and transfers can enhance your travel experience. One of my favorite moments in Boracay was the smooth transfer from Caticlan; it added a touch of pampering to my trip, alongside the beautiful beaches and the amazing tofu Adobo.
Environmental Awareness
The Philippines is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world; however, it faces significant environmental challenges, especially concerning plastic pollution. The abundance of plastic, often stemming from the West, seriously threatens these stunning natural sites. Importantly, if you come from a Western country where you don’t usually see plastic cluttering natural spaces, consider that much of it may be shipped to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.
Consequently, I encourage travelers to dedicate some time to picking up trash during their visit. You not only improve the beauty of these beaches but also raise awareness about the necessity of caring for our environment.
In conclusion, there you have my four, albeit slightly random, reasons to visit the Philippines. While I could elaborate even further, I recognize that if you’re reading this, you’re likely feeling tempted. My advice? Just go! The Philippines is an unforgettable destination. If you have visited before, feel free to share your tips and advice below!
