Fascinating vacation spots to achieve your summer travel goals

the Philippines to get you started:

Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte

Located in the Davao Gulf, Island Garden City of Samal is the largest resort island in the Philippines, with over 30 resorts along its 118-kilometer coastline. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling in the Coral Garden and Marine Park, exploring the botanical garden and nature park, and observing the world’s largest colony of fruit bats at the Monfort Bat cave.

It’s just a 15-minute boat ride from Davao City, making it a convenient stop for travelers seeking stunning landscapes and seascapes. Alona Beach, Bohol Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol, is an excellent addition to any beach lover’s travel bucket list. With a 1.5-kilometer stretch of white sand beach and crystal-clear blue waters, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. For those who want to explore more, nearby Balicasag Island offers rich marine biodiversity, including a 400-meter coral garden and marine sanctuary, which can be reached by a short boat ride. The famous Chocolate Hills, Mahogany Forest, and Loboc River Cruise are also must-visit destinations while in Bohol.

The Ruins, Bacolod

The Ruins, also known as the “Taj Mahal of the Philippines,” is a popular tourist spot in Talisay, Bacolod City. Originally the ancestral home of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, it was built in memory of his wife Maria, who died giving birth to their 8th child. Despite being burned down during World War II, the mansion’s foundation still stands and is admired for its Italian-inspired architecture. The Ruins has become a popular wedding venue due to its romantic history. Visitors can also take a day trip to Silay to explore its well-preserved heritage houses, such as the Golez Heritage House and the Balay Negrense heritage house and museum, to appreciate the old-age architecture of the Philippines.

Museo Orlina, Tagaytay City

This museum in Tagaytay City is a great destination for a relaxing adventure in a cooler climate.

It showcases the glass sculptures of Filipino artist Ramon Orlina and features a four-floor exhibit area, including the Reflections Gallery and the Naesa Gallery, which exhibits the work of up-and-coming Filipino artists. Visitors can also take a walk in the Sculpture Garden and Amphitheater to admire Orlina’s work alongside nature and enjoy a beautiful view of Taal Lake from the roof deck.

Tam-awan Village and Bell Church

As the Summer Capital of the Philippines, many vacationers travel to Baguio in search of respite from the hot weather. The cooler climate alongside the beautiful nature makes it a must-go destination for anyone regardless of their preference for adventure.

Those who’ve been to Baguio several times would undoubtedly know of its most famous landmarks including Wright Park, Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and more. But for those who want to discover more about the city and its culture, there’s no better place to visit than the Tam-awan Village and the Bell Church.

Tam-awan Village in Baguio City showcases indigenous craftsmanship, Ifugao architecture, and local art pieces set within a beautiful mountainside forest. Meanwhile, Bell Church in La Trinidad, Benguet is a 63-year-old Taoist temple where visitors can appreciate the temple’s architecture and lotus pond, and have their fortunes read by the monks.