The Philippines is one of the most abundant countries in the world. It is a tropical country that is rich in natural resources. There are many reasons why we say that “It’s more fun in the Philippines”.

These are the top 10 hidden gems in the Philippines:

1. Filipino people – They are one of the top hidden gems that are noticeable but sometimes overlooked by travelers. Filipinos are one of the assets of having a beautiful country. They are like the colored pencil on uncolored books. If you visit the Philippines, you will experience unexpected things. The best example is the advertisement from the Department of Tourism entitled “ANAK” released in 2017. It was a story of a foreigner exploring different islands in the country. While he was in Surigao, he was offered by a grandmother a snack called sayongsong, which is a famous kakanin in Surigao which was with banana leaves wrapped on it. The grandmother said “kain ka muna anak” to the foreigner, and without hesitation, he accepted the snack and continued on his journey. While on his way, he asked the local guide what “anak” means and answered that it means “my child”. He was so flattered and shocked when he knew the meaning. Thus, the message imparts to us that “When you’re with Filipinos, you’re with Family”.

2. Public Markets– There are several markets in the Philippines that some travelers might be afraid of. However, those markets are the life of every local businessman and the backbone of every farmer. With that said, it is one of the hidden gems due to its beautiful reason for existence.

These are the things you will see while visiting the markets:
– Most of the products are affordable yet fresh and healthy fruits and vegetables.
– Strolling in the wet market, you will see different types of fish at a very reasonable price yet freshly caught from the sea, and the like.

3. Philippine Delicacies – Filipinos are often called sweet tooth. Mostly, delicacies from the Philippines are from sweet ingredients.
Some of these are:
-Dried mangoes in Cebu- mostly dried under the sun and coated with sugar to preserve for a couple of months.

Packaged dried mango varieties, as is or chocolate covered

– Kalamay in Bohol- consists of coconut milk, glutinous rice flour, and palm/brown sugar, and put in a coconut shell or a plastic container.

-Peanut Kisses- these are sweet treats and are of high-quality peanut and fresh egg whites.

-Halo-halo – One of the iconic treats for a tropical nation like the Philippines. It is undeniably delicious from different types of ingredients mixed with it. Such as jackfruit,ube, flavored crushed ice, evaporated milk, young shredded coconut, banana, jellies, sweetened beans, etc.

A mix of candied fruit and jellies, beans (yes, beans), crushed ice, milk, ube ice cream and flan…halo-halo is a favourite afternoon refresher for Filipinos which literally translates to “mix-mix”.

4.Pamilacan Island– This island is one of the most serene and beautiful islands. It has vibrant corals, fine white sand, and crystal clear water. Its accommodation is an exquisite back-to-basic Filipino style with no air conditioner, but you will experience a Filipino way of avoiding mosquitos while sleeping. There will be a mosquito net and ceiling fan provided. Thus, it will be a great experience to try visiting and staying on this island for at least a night.

5.Carnaza Island– It is an island located in the northern part of Cebu and part of the barangay of the Municipality of DaanBantayan. It is a one of a kind and majestic island with a unique structure for accommodation. Once you go there, you will be mesmerized by bioluminescent waves during nighttime and beautiful sightseeing of the stars. It is best for friends, couples, and those who want to experience an away from the city.

6.La Bamba Beach Resort – The Philippines is famous for beaches that have pristine white sand beaches. But, the La Bamba beach has its unique features. It is in a class by itself beach that naturally existed because instead of sand, it is full of pebbles. The pebbles on the beach help a lot concerning their uniqueness; it is also famous for its rock formations that are best for picture taking.

7.Miniloc Island– This island shows another combination of modernity and a touch of a back-to-basic lifestyle. The island offers an unforgettable stay that highlights its tranquility. On Miniloc Island, you can do a lot of activities like trekking that will take you to its panoramic views, free diving, kayaking, and much more. Additionally, this island will let you feel beyond satisfaction and would allow you to feel like living in a paradise once you visit here.

Spend a dream holiday on Miniloc Island. Photo by El Nido Resorts

7. Batanes– It is a destination in the Northern part of Luzon with famous breathtaking scenery. It is Switzerland-like with the absence of those mountains covered with snow, yet it has admired greenery surrounding it. Furthermore, it highlights stone houses that convey the time of the stone age.

9.Tinago Island, Tagana-An, Surigao del Norte– This features the 360 degrees untouched and undiscovered beauty. It is not yet exposed since most locals are the only guests that visit there. It is best for snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. What’s more beautiful about it is the beauty of those native cottages and peaceful scenery.

10. Lake Bensis, Toledo City Cebu– This is one of the best camping sites for those who are looking for adventure and calmness. It is considered one of the secluded lakes in Cebu. Some activities possible around it are fishing and strolling the area using the bamboo raft.