Philippines 

During my 3-week backpacking trip to the Philippines, I had the opportunity to explore some of the most stunning destinations in the country. My route took me through Cebu, Siargao, El Nido in Palawan, and Coron, and although these destinations were incredible, they only gave me a glimpse of what the Philippines has to offer. With over 7,000 islands to explore, there are endless opportunities for adventure and discovery, depending on your interests. Whether you're into surfing, hiking, island hopping, or diving, there's something for everyone in this magical archipelago. I visited the Philippines in March / April 2023 and stayed there for a total of 21 nights. My travel route:

• Cebu - 2 nights
• Siargao - 8 nights
• El Nido Palawan - 7 nights
• Coron - 4 nights

My journey began in Cebu, where I spent a night before heading off to my first major stop: Siargao. I spent eight nights in this surfer's paradise, soaking up the sun, exploring the island, and immersing myself in the local culture. From Siargao, I made my way to the breathtakingly beautiful El Nido in Palawan, where I spent seven nights exploring the towering limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters of the Bacuit Bay. Island hopping through the turquoise waters was an absolute highlight of my trip. After leaving El Nido, I headed to Coron, where I spent four nights exploring the vibrant underwater world and the fascinating history of Japanese shipwrecks from World War II.

Finally, I returned to Cebu for one more night before saying goodbye to this incredible country. My travel route through the Philippines was an unforgettable journey that exposed me to the beauty, diversity, and magic of this enchanting archipelago.

The best time to travel to the Philippines is generally from November to April, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for beach and outdoor activities. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The rainy season in the Philippines runs from May to October, and while it can bring occasional typhoons, the weather can still be enjoyable, with fewer crowds and cheaper prices. It's worth noting that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before traveling. Additionally, some destinations in the Philippines, such as Siargao, have their own unique weather patterns and peak seasons, so it's important to do some research beforehand.

Transportation and getting around the different islands in the Philippines can vary greatly depending on the location. In general, domestic flights are the fastest and most convenient option for traveling between major islands. Once on an island, there are typically options for taxis, Grab (ride-hailing service), tricycles (motorcycles with attached sidecars), and motorbikes for shorter distances. Shared vans are also a common way to travel between towns and cities on the same island. It's important to note that some islands, like Siargao, do not have taxi services and the main mode of transportation is either by motorbike or tricycle. 

How did I travel around?

Getting around the different islands during my backpacking trip to the Philippines was relatively easy and affordable. In Cebu City, I recommend taking a Grab taxi from the airport to the city center, which costs between 320-400 pesos (6-8$). 

On Siargao island, the best way to get around is by motorbike or tricycle. For airport transfers, I recommend taking a shared van for 300 pesos (5$) or a tricycle. There are no taxis on the island, but tricycles are readily available. Once you arrive on the island (with the smallest airport I’ve ever been to), the shared vans are already waiting in front of the airport. 

To get from Siargao to El Nido in Palawan, I recommend taking a flight from Siargao to Cebu and then to Puerto Princesa. From there, you have to take a shared van for 5-6 hours to get to El Nido, which costs around 700 pesos (13$). Alternatively, you can fly directly to El Nido airport. However, this airport is very small and doesn’t offer that many flights. Once in El Nido, walking is the easiest way to get around the small town, but tricycles and motorbikes are also available for exploring the nearby beaches and attractions. 

To get from El Nido to Coron, I recommend taking a ferry that takes about 4 hours and costs around 3200 pesos (58$). Overall, the transfers on the different islands were affordable and easy to navigate, making it simple to explore all the amazing destinations the Philippines has to offer.

During my backpacking trip to the Philippines, I had the opportunity to stay at some incredible hostels that made my journey even more enjoyable. In Cebu, I recommend Murals Hostel & Café or Happy Neat Hostel for budget travelers looking for a comfortable stay with great amenities. 

On Siargao, I had an amazing experience staying at the Tropical Temple hostel, which had an excellent pool chill-out area, beautiful lobby, and comfortable dorms. The hostel's location was also very convenient for exploring the island, since it is located in between General Luna and Cloud 9. 

In El Nido, I stayed at Spin Designer Hostel, which had a cool vibe and a great breakfast buffet included in the room rate. The female bathrooms were also a nice touch for solo female travelers looking for a comfortable stay. Finally, in Coron, I stayed at Hop Hostel, which had a great pool area and a fun and lively vibe that made it easy to meet other travelers. Overall, I highly recommend these hostels for backpackers looking for affordable, comfortable, and enjoyable accommodation on their trip to the Philippines.

Booking accommodations in the Philippines is easy, with options ranging from traditional booking websites like Booking.com and Hostelworld. During my trip I stayed in the following accommodations:

• Cebu - Murals Hostel & Café or Happy Nest Hostel
• Siargao - Tropical Temple 
• El Nido - Spin Designer Hostel 
• Coron - Hop Hostel 

Philippine cuisine is diverse and reflects the country's cultural heritage. Some of the popular traditional dishes include adobo (chicken or pork cooked in vinegar and soy sauce), sinigang (a sour soup with vegetables and meat or seafood), lechon (roasted pig), and kare-kare (a stew made with oxtail and peanut sauce). Vegetarian options are also available, such as lumpiang shanghai (spring rolls), pinakbet (mixed vegetables sautéed in fish sauce), and tofu sisig (tofu cooked in a sizzling plate with onions and spices). One unique experience when it comes to Filipino dining is the boodle fights lunch buffet, where food is served on a long table with banana leaves and eaten with your hands. It is a fun and communal way of eating that brings people together to share a meal. I have experienced a few boodle fights on the boat trips I booked to explore some of the islands. 

In general, traditional Filipino dishes in local eateries or small street food stalls can cost around 50-150 pesos per dish (1-3 euros), while meals in more modern and upscale restaurants can range from 200-500 pesos or more (4-10 euros).

Restaurants & Cafés in Siargao

• Coco Frio is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to try one of Siargao's most famous treats. Their specialty is a fresh coconut filled with coconut ice cream and toppings, and it's absolutely delicious.
• Goodies is a popular cafe and restaurant that offers a range of healthy and tasty dishes, from smoothie bowls to sandwiches and salads.
• The Spotted Pig Cafe in Siargao is a charming and cozy spot that serves delicious coffee and wholesome breakfast options.
• Coffee Corner is a cozy cafe that's perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break. They offer a range of coffee drinks, as well as pastries and light bites.
• Vedya Cafe is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly spot that offers a range of healthy and delicious dishes, as well as smoothies and juices.
• Tiki Hut is a lovely restaurant that's perfect for drinks or a casual dinner.
• Jorene's Homemade Ice Cream is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. Be sure to try the traditional Filipino dessert, Halo Halo.
• Indonesian Warung at Siargao Island Villas Resort offers authentic Indonesian cuisine, including delicious noodle dishes with vegetarian options. 
• The Happiness Restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with its mouth-watering Filipino and international cuisine, served in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Tag Supermarkt is the closest thing to a supermarket on the island, and a good spot to stock up on essentials.

Restaurants & Cafes in El Nido 

• Grounded Café is a minimalistic, modern café that serves up great coffee and delicious breakfast options.
• Dayo Café offers a range of healthy and tasty meals, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.
• Happiness offers a mix of Filipino and Western cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious breakfast and has a cozy outdoor seating area.
• Boutique & art café is a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the art and boutique items on display.
• Big Bad Thai serves delicious Thai food with great ocean views.
• Taste is a vegan food café offering a range of plant-based options, including smoothie bowls and salads.
• Bella Vita Restaurant serves up authentic Neapolitan pizzas directly by the beach (perfect for sunsets).
• Holy Smoke is a great spot for vegetarians and vegans, this restaurant serves up delicious falafel wraps and sandwiches.
• Prince supermarket is a good place to pick up some groceries with local and imported products.

Restaurants & Cafés in Coron

• Verde Regano offers delicious Filipino and Asian fusion cuisine with a modern twist.
• Pacifico is a popular seafood restaurant that serves fresh seafood caught daily.
• Hermanos Tapas and Wine Bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine and some tapas after a day of exploring.
• Epic Cafe is a cozy cafe with great coffee and baked goods.
• Follow Your Taste offers a variety of international dishes and refreshing drinks.
• Gavins Kitchen + Bar is a must-visit spot for a delicious burger and craft beer.
• Julie‘s Bakery is a perfect place to grab some freshly baked bread and pastries for breakfast or lunch.

Restaurants & cafes in Cebu

• Goodcup Coffee is a minimalistic café that serves quality coffee, pastries, and light meals. 
• Cafe Talked Library is a unique café where you can read books, play board games, and enjoy good food and drinks. 
• Super Metro is a popular supermarket chain in Cebu that offers a wide variety of local and imported products.

Backpacking in the Philippines can be done on a budget, and with careful planning, it’s possible to enjoy a fantastic trip without breaking the bank. During my 3-week-travel in the Philippines I spend around 45$ per day, which includes accommodation, food, activities, and transport. With its stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture, the Philippines offers excellent value for money. However, it's important to note that prices can vary depending on the season and the location. Traveling during the shoulder season, between November and May, can be more affordable, while peak season in the Philippines can be pricier. Nonetheless, with its affordable yet tasty local street food, and the abundance of budget-friendly hostels, it’s easy to make the most of your trip to the Philippines without compromising on quality experiences.

In total, I spent about 2,000$ for my 3-week backpacking trip through the Philippines: 

• Accommodations 320$ 
• Food 140$
• Transportation 350$ (including 3 domestic flights)
• Activities 160$
• International flights 1,100$