The Philippines is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with over 10 million tourists coming from all around the world every year. However, not everyone goes on vacation to ensure they get to see everything there is to see or take advantage of everything they can while there. In order to help you maximise your time and money spent in this beautiful country, here are the top 8 tips and tricks to help make sure you have the trip of a lifetime when you go to the Philippines-

Try Water Sports

Water sports are a great way to get up close with marine life. There’s no shortage of water activities in the Philippines, from kayaking in Cebu or sailing around Boracay, to diving in Palawan. The best part is you don’t need any experience- just a sense of adventure.

Visit Banaue Rice Terraces

As a traveller, you have the opportunity to visit one of the most stunning sights in Asia, if not in all of the world. The Rice Terraces are some of these amazing sights that will take your breath away. If you want to see them for yourself, it is best that you visit during harvest season as this is when they are at their best.

Trek to Mount Pinatubo

Get in touch with your adventurous side by trekking up Mount Pinatubo. The hike takes about six hours, but that’s not including time spent exploring scenic destinations like Lake Catarman along the way. Bring enough food and water, as there are no facilities on top of the mountain.

Try White Water Rafting in San Juan, La Union

White water rafting is a great way to get your adrenaline pumping. The rapids are more intense in La Union than in other parts of the country, so you can expect it to be a challenging but exhilarating experience. If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a ride on a bamboo raft down the river while enjoying the beautiful scenery around you.

Ride on a Jeepney

You can board a jeepney by asking someone if it’s going your way, or you can tell them where you want to go. If you want to get off before your destination, say LUGAR NA (pointing in the direction of where you want to get off).

Shop at SM Manila, Shangri-la Mall Taguig, Ayala Malls Legazpi

When you arrive at Manila airport, your first stop should be SM Manila. You can’t go wrong shopping at any of their eight floors. After you’ve shopped, eaten and rested, head over to Shangri-la Mall Taguig for more excellent shopping options. When you’re ready, call a Manila airport transfer service to get back home. For a quieter experience but still loads of shopping possibilities head to Ayala Malls Legazpi.

Savour Street Food in Cubao Expo, Divisoria Market and Manila’s Chinatown Binondo

If you want a taste of authentic Filipino food, then head over to Cubao Expo in Quezon City. Here you can find street stalls that sell all sorts of Filipino favourites like lechon kawali (deep fried pork belly), beef tapa (cured beef), lumpia (egg rolls) and more. For souvenirs, head down South Road in Divisoria Market where you’ll find lots of trinkets, clothes, toys and more.

Explore the Underground River in Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is a city in the province of Palawan, on the island of Palawan, which is on the west side of Borneo.