The Philippines is a dream destination for many young explorers thanks to its world-class beaches, diving sites, and welcoming local communities. Backpackers highlight island-hopping tours in Palawan’s El Nido, whale shark interactions in Cebu, and the vibrant nightlife of Boracay. Accommodation and food can be very budget-friendly, facilitating longer stays. Metro Manila has a growing urban art and music scene, but it’s often the natural wonders and the famously warm hospitality that stand out. Many travelers praise the ease of meeting fellow adventurers and forming group trips to lesser-known spots, fueling a sense of camaraderie. Overall, the Philippines offers an enticing mix of tropical relaxation and cultural encounters perfect for 20-somethings.

History of Philippines

The Philippines has a history shaped by indigenous cultures, foreign colonization, and a dynamic quest for independence. Archaeological discoveries, like those of the Tabon Caves, indicate human presence dating back thousands of years. Prior to Spanish arrival in the 16th century, numerous barangays (small communities) thrived under local chieftains called datus. Trade links with China, Japan, and Southeast Asian polities introduced goods, ideas, and cultural exchange. In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan arrived, claiming the islands for Spain. Spanish colonization, formalized by Miguel López de Legazpi in 1565, spread Catholicism and established the galleon trade route between Manila and Acapulco. This era also saw the construction of fortified cities like Intramuros in Manila. By the late 19th century, Filipino nationalism grew, galvanized by figures like José Rizal and Andrés Bonifacio. The 1898 Philippine Revolution, coupled with the Spanish-American War, ended Spanish rule, only for the United States to take control. The Philippine-American War ensued, concluding with American colonial administration that lasted until World War II. Japanese occupation (1941–1945) inflicted deep scars, but eventual liberation paved the way for an independent republic in 1946. Post-independence years witnessed political upheaval, including the authoritarian regime of Ferdinand Marcos, toppled by the 1986 People Power Revolution. Today, the Philippines is a vibrant democracy that embraces a mix of Malay, Spanish, and American influences, evident in its language, traditions, and a warm cultural ethos that welcomes visitors from around the globe.

Diving into Philippines's Nature

The Philippines is an archipelagic wonderland of over 7,000 islands, each with its own distinct landscapes, offering rich biodiversity both on land and under the sea. Palawan, often heralded as the country’s “last ecological frontier,” features the acclaimed El Nido and Coron areas, where limestone cliffs encircle turquoise lagoons dotted with coral reefs. Nearby, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River snakes through an underground cave system, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Central Visayas includes Bohol’s famed Chocolate Hills, thousands of conical mounds that turn brown in the dry season, plus the tarsier sanctuaries protecting one of the world’s smallest primates. The island of Cebu blends cosmopolitan bustle with scenic waterfalls like Kawasan, where multi-tiered cascades feed vibrant blue pools. Mindanao’s wonders range from white-sand beaches around Siargao, a surfer’s paradise, to Lake Sebu’s lush highlands, home to Indigenous T’boli communities. Northern Luzon showcases the Cordillera region, where the UNESCO-listed Ifugao Rice Terraces have been carved into mountainsides over generations. Coastal regions throughout the Philippines offer opportunities to swim with whale sharks in Oslob, dive in world-class coral reefs off Apo Island, and explore shipwreck sites near Coron. Given its tropical climate, volcanic foundations, and prolific marine life, the Philippines’ interplay of beaches, forests, mountains, and coral reefs epitomizes a true island paradise for nature lovers.

Voyista's Philippines Tour Experience

Having island-hopped through Palawan’s hidden coves, dived with whale sharks in Cebu, and sampled Manila’s evolving food scene, Voyista is well equipped to showcase the Philippines. Our custom itineraries highlight the archipelago’s best features: pristine beaches, bustling cities, and centuries-old heritage sites. We coordinate everything from remote island transport to cultural experiences like visiting tribal villages in the Cordilleras or tasting fresh kinilaw at local markets. With an emphasis on personal exploration, we help travelers combine iconic sights—like the Chocolate Hills of Bohol—with lesser-known gems off the usual tourist radar. Throughout, Voyista’s connections and careful planning enable you to embrace the Philippines’ legendary warmth and biodiversity in ways most visitors miss.