photo by mondreymond via Flickr
When you’re on a budget but still want to explore the world, it can be a little difficult but if you travel smart, you’ll be surprised as to what you’ll be able to experience. One way to travel smart is to visit countries during the off season. During the off-season, many resorts and hotels will have great deals and discounts because they’re trying to fill the rooms and stretch out activity for as long as they can.
And when it comes to the Philippines, it’s no different. Some would even argue that traveling during the off-season of June through November is actually advantageous in general as you won’t be fighting the crowds or have over-booked tours. So to help you plan your next vacation, we’ve curated the top three places that are must-visits for your off-season Philippine adventure.
photo by Marion Paul Baylado via Flickr
Cebu
One of the reasons the off season is called the off season is because this is the time of year when there’s higher chance of rain; sometimes the rain will continue straight for a few days. Typhoons are also a concern so that usually limits normal tourist-going excursions. But if you know where to go, you won’t be landlocked and you’ll be able to enjoy all the same activities as you would during the peak season.
Enter Cebu. This area is actually sheltered and is rarely affected by typhoons during the off-season. It also has killer diving and snorkeling spots in Moalboal and Malapascua and if you’re more of a freshwater lover, the canyoning in Kawasan falls is also a treat.
Moalboal has the White Beach which is more of a local beach and Malaspascua has the best diving if you’re looking to get up close and personal with sharks.
Check out the Visayas Dive Safari by Uncharted Philippines or book a custom tour to make sure you get the best Cebu experience during the off-season.
photo by mondreymond via Flickr
Bohol
After your trip to Cebu, why not check out nearby Bohol Island as well? Like Cebu, this area is also sheltered from the typhoons and there are plenty of great beaches that are also great for snorkelling and diving. The Chocolate Hills and tarsiers are also must-sees in the area.
Balicasag Island and Panglao are where you’ll suit up and do some major snorkelling or diving. Nemo, Dori, Crush and the whole gang will be waiting for you underwater tucked away in a magnificent reef. You could spend a whole day living that reef life exploring all the crooks and crannies in the underwater wonderscape. Just make sure you link up with a knowledgeable in-the-know guide to keep you safe as well as help you identify key flora and fauna. It’s always a lot more fun when you actually know what you’re looking at.
Into nature and some history? Check out the Hills, a proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Geological Monument. Called chocolate as the hills turn brown during the dry season, these hills cover a 20 square mile radius and is truly a sight to behold. Onlookers will also be interested to know that the hills are featured on the provincial flag and is declared the Philippines’ third National Geological Monument.
photo by denAsuncioner via Flickr
Palawan
Palawan, the largest province in the Philippines as well as one of the hottest tourist destinations is also a great place to visit during the off-season. Why? It’s because the area is rarely affected by the typhoons since it’s located in the west and most typhoons come from the east. And whether you’re into hiking, viewing wildlife, snorkeling or seafood, Palawan will have something for you. For beginners, a great overview trip is the Palawan: Adventure in Paradise tour.During the tour, you’ll be able to enjoy the most well-known Palawan destinations including Sabang, the Puerto Princesa National Park and Underground River, and El Nido.
If you’re more into the hidden gems of Palawan, there’s a trip for you too – the Palawan’s Best Kept Secrets tour. During the tour, you’ll be able to enjoy exploring the “Hundred Caves” of Tagabinet, trek Narra’s beautiful Estrella Falls, visit the indigenous Batak people and much, much more.
And if you’re into the ultimate Palawan snorkeling package tour, check out the Northern Palawan Snorkeling Expedition.
Once you’re done with your adventures, you’ll also be able to take in the local culture or grab a brew and enjoy the best of both city life and nature during a custom Palawan adventure.
Let’s Go!
Travelling during the off-season has so many advantages that when you know where to go, you won’t even mind the rainy days. Beat the crowds and maximize your adventure time by travelling smart and going with a knowledgeable tour guide. To plan your once-in-a-lifetime adventure, make sure to reach out to Uncharted Philippines and you’ll be on your way to the beach in no time.