30 JULY, 2019

TOP 10 SAFE PHILIPPINE DESTINATIONS FOR SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS

Traveling is one of the most exhilarating things to experience nowadays. Whether it’s just taking a drive out of town, or even flying out to a different city, there is something about traveling that feels refreshing. You get to meet different types of travelers, get inspired by the locale, and learn about different cultures and histories. It’s fun to travel with your friends and families, but another great way to travel is by doing it solo. 

Solo traveling for females is dangerous and frightening at first. You might get lost or be an unfortunate target of theft or scam. But ultimately, if you think about it, those kinds of situations can happen to anyone while traveling solo and even in groups. 

At the end of the day, traveling alone is a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. You get that sense of independence, liberation, and empowerment. For your first solo destination, you may want to consider the Philippines and its beautiful islands, picturesque scenes, and hospitable locals.

Here are 10 Philippine destinations for female solo travelers. 

1. Chill out in Tagaytay

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If you’re looking for a quick out of town trip just to get away from the hustle and bustle of Manila, then Tagaytay is one of those quick destinations that you should consider. It’s good for day trips for solo travelers. Noted for its slight chilly breeze that provides a certain cozy ambiance, the area is filled with amazing restaurants and bed-and-breakfast inns and noteworthy hotels. It is also known to be the destination that provides a picturesque view of Taal Lake. 

Tagaytay is a safe place to visit as most establishments and areas have guards, and there are usually police cars and officers roving around the area. If you want to go somewhere with an amazing view you could visit People’s Park in the Sky which is an urban park located atop Mount Sungay. If you’re up for something active and exciting, stopover at Sky Ranch, an amusement park that has a lot of classic rides.

Tip: Ride the Ferris wheel and see a great view of Taal Lake. For a bit more relaxing trip, you can head to Sonya’s Garden where you could have brunch and take a soothing massage. All-in-all be sure to prepare Php1,500 to Php3,000.

2. Drive adventure in Antipolo 

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If you’re up for a little bit of drive and adventure, then Antipolo is another safe destination that offers day trips for solo travelers. Antipolo has several hiking trails that range from beginner-friendly to moderately challenging. It is the home of Wawa Dam, a major attraction in the area and a known swimming spot.

Another great place to see in Antipolo is the Hinulugang Taktak National Park. Aside from the waterfalls, the park is perfect for jogging, biking, or casual strolls. There are cottages by the park and a swimming pool. Be advised that the park is open from 8 am to 5 pm only. 

And if you’re into the arts, visit  Pinto Art Museum. It has a well-curated collection of Philippine contemporary and indigenous art, sculptures, and paintings. The museum’s galleries are located in mission-style buildings with a beautiful picturesque garden that is very Instagram-worthy. For this trip be sure to prepare Php1,500 to Php2,800.

3. Say hello to Baler 

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Another safe adventure-filled destination would be Baler. If you love to hike, surf, and learn a bit of history, then this is the solo travel destination for you. Within Baler are countless tour guides and groups that could safely take you to certain destinations. If you are interested in hiking and some nature scenes, visit the Ditumabo and Cunayan Falls. 

Another great way to go about Baler is to visit the Museo de Baler and learn more about the rich Spanish heritage of the Philippines. Museum entrance costs around Php50 to  Php80. Since Baler is a major surfing town, try surfing in Sabang Beach or Cemento Beach. If you don’t have a board, no worries, there are board rentals there that cost about Php600 per day. Overall, if you wish to do all those in Baler, it’s best to prepare Php3,500 to Php5,000.

4. Surf’s up in Siargao 

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If you’re the type of traveler who loves to surf, then Siargao is the ABSOLUTE destination for you. Dubbed as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao is home to some of the most beautiful waves that are perfect to hit up with your board. The small island is currently filled with small unique food and souvenir establishments. You can ask your hotel for island hopping or surfing lesson rates, as well as board rental costs. Given that Siargao is a world-class destination, food and accommodations could be a bit expensive so you might want to prepare around Php10,000 to Php15,000 in cash since the town only has two ATMs. 

5. Be free in Cebu 

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Surrounded by beautiful beaches and mountains, Cebu is truly a sight to behold as it has a bit of everything. And its many charms is why it is one of the best solo travel destinations in the Philippines. You can eat at Balay Sa Busay,  a restaurant located on a mountain-top that has a picturesque view of the city. The restaurant offers traditional Filipino home comfort food with a certain twist. Food prices in that restaurant range from Php150.00-Php500.00. 

If going to the mountains is not your thing, and you like water sports, perhaps snorkeling and swimming with giant whale sharks in Oslob should do the trick. To go to Oslob, take a 3-hour bus ride from Cebu City to Oslob, which costs about Php200. Snorkeling with the whales could cost around Php500 to  Php1,000. If you just want to explore metro Cebu, then perhaps you could take a tour around Cebu City. You can visit Magellan’s Cross and the Sto. Niño Church. Total expenses plus accommodations cost Php10,000 to Php15,000.

6. Be at peace in Batanes 

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If you’re the type of traveler that favors more scenic views than activities then Batanes is a really good destination to visit. Its rolling hills, the majestic view of the ocean and rustic architecture are unlike any other Philippine destination. You could visit the Basco Lighthouse, the Sabtang Island Stone Houses, and the Vayang Rolling Hills. Definitely an Instagram worth solo travel destination. For this trip prepare at least Php22,000.00-Php25,000.00.

7. Sail away in Boracay 

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If parties and beaches are your ultimate getaway, one of the most popular islands to visit in the Philippines is Boracay. Known as a party island, it was recently closed down for rehabilitation. Now that is has re-opened, Boracay is still considered one of the good places to visit, and still one of the best solo travel destinations in the Philippines. 

The island is filled with unique bars and restaurants that would definitely allow you to meet new people. It has hotels and inns for different budgets and needs—all perfectly safe for you to stay in. The island isn’t just known for its party scene, you could definitely do a lot of activities such as riding an ATV, parasailing, cliff diving, and even island hopping. Plus the island has wonderful Boracay accomodations like Alta Vista de Boracay with awesome amenities. Hotels also give great tour suggestions that will definitely make your vacation more enjoyable. For this trip, since Boracay is a topnotch tourist destination, it would be safe to prepare around Php15,000 to  Php18,500.

8. Wander around in Palawan

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Palawan is a destination for those who want stellar relaxing views. Palawan’s Puerto Princesa, Coron, and El Nido boasts great scenic views of the ocean perfect for island hopping. You can take your lunch either on the boat or on one of the islands, then you can go kayaking and snorkeling at Kayangan Lake or visit the Secret Lagoon.

Palawan is a relaxing and safe solo travel destination in the country that you’d want to keep visiting. Aside from snorkeling or island hopping, you can even visit an underground cave. Depending on what you’ll do there, Palawan could get pretty expensive so make sure to prepare Php20,000.00-Php22,000.00 worth of pocket money.

9. Escape in Baguio 

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Tired of the heat and want to go somewhere that is cold? You might want to visit Baguio. It’s a mountain top city that is one of the best places to travel alone for the first time. You could rent a boat and go for a nice and relaxing boat ride at Burnham Park. You could go thrift shopping at Session Road. You could visit Mines View Park which offers a scenic view of Baguio city itself. 

While you’re in the area you may want to dine at Kanto restaurant. Kanto offers a wide range of food for an affordable price, not to mention their serving size is bigger than the average meal. Overall, Baguio is a very chilly place so make sure to bring a jacket and sweater with you. Make sure to prepare Php5,000.00-Php8,000.00 when you go.

10. Have a sweet time in Bohol 

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If you haven’t heard of the famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol then you’re surely missing out. It is the most famous tourist attraction of Bohol which has been featured on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2006 that is definitely worth visiting. The hills turn chocolate brown during the dry seasons which is why it is famously named Chocolate Hills. It greatly resembles the famous chocolate of Hershey’s which are the chocolate kisses. If you like great mountainous views then this solo travel destination to Bohol is for you. It’s absolutely safe as the area is packed with tour guides that are ready to assist you on your visit. When visiting Bohol it is best to bring at least Php8,000.00-Php10,000.00.

The Philippines is one of the most travel-friendly and hospitable countries in the world. Majority of the locals know and understand English so you wouldn’t have a hard time getting directions. Food and accommodations are also budget-friendly so you’ll be able to get as much even with budget constraints. Overall, the Philippines is a destination worth visiting not just for its beautiful sights, but for its rich culture and heritage. To all the ladies who want to have an exciting and adventures time in the Philippines, check out these cool (and very safe) tourist destinations!