Cover (Photo: Pixabay/Pexels)
(Photo: Pixabay/Pexels)
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Luxury travel doesn’t always have to be expensive
Going all out on your travel plans is the best way to treat yourself. Luxurious hotel rooms, the finest delicacies prepared by top chefs, and lavish activities on a yacht are great and all, but they’re not sustainable. There’s a certain allure to relying on your wits, and being financially wise during your travels can make it all the more memorable. So, if you’re looking to backpack around on a limited budget, this article has five summer destinations for the prudent traveller.
More from Tatler: Discover some of the best luxury villas to visit around the world for your vacation needs
Liw-liwa, Zambales
Liw-liwa Beach in Zambales offers many affordable glamping options for those who want to live near nature. This quiet area has a tightly-knit community with a shared love for the ocean. From surfing to riding ATVs and playing beach football with the locals, you can do almost anything here. All it takes is a three-hour drive to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and an awe-inspiring night sky.
Tatler Tip: Check out Kwentong Dagat’s restaurant for a completely vegan menu!
Puerto Galera, Mindoro
Above Coral Reefs of Puerto Galera (Photo: Brent Durand GettyImages)
Coral Reefs of Puerto Galera (Photo: Brent Durand GettyImages)
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With over 30 dive sites and shipwrecks to explore, Puerto Galera is a popular destination for most amateur and experienced divers. But what makes it an attractive summer vacation spot is its affordability. Getting here may sound daunting on paper, but it’s just a quick road trip to Batangas Port. From there, get on a ferry, and you can start enjoying the beautiful seascape of Mindoro.
Bicol Region
Above Rolling hills and Mt. Mayon (Photo: Matteo Colombo/GettyImages)
Rolling hills and Mt. Mayon (Photo: Matteo Colombo/GettyImages)
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A trekker’s dream, the entirety of the Bicol region boasts many mountains for you to summit, lakes to wade in, and volcanoes to admire. Make sure to pack light and dress comfortably, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. If that doesn’t satisfy your wanderlust, there are plenty of nearby islands to visit and local delicacies to try.
Basey, Samar
Above Sohoton Cave (Photo: Opal10/Instagram)
Sohoton Cave (Photo: Opal10/Instagram)
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When you hear ‘spelunking’, you probably immediately think of Puerto Princesa’s underground river. But what if I tell you that Basey, Samar has its subterranean river? Nestled in the lush forest, the beautiful Sohoton Caves feature an expansive inner chamber with stalactites, stalagmites, and a natural bridge.
Tatler Tip: The Sohoton Cave Natural Park offers plenty more to nature lovers. The cave is just a tiny part of the Samar Island National Park, so explore around to find endemic wildlife.
Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Above The streets of Vigan at Night (Photo: Laurie Noble/GettyImages)
The streets of Vigan at Night (Photo: Laurie Noble/GettyImages)
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A city locked in time, Vigan in Ilocos Sur is a prime example of the Philippines being a melting pot of cultures. Established in the 16th century, Vigan and its unique architecture reflect the cultural elements of China, the Philippines, and Europe while still having an identity of its own. Any modern elements were seamlessly integrated, keeping its heritage intact. Leave any big bags behind because walking around and getting lost is a dream.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
