After months of lockdown, people are itching for a change of scenery. With travel being gradually reopened to jump-start the tourism industry, vacationing is now once again possible!

Here are are seven local destinations to consider when wanderlust strikes:

Vigan

The journey begins in the historic city of Vigan located up north in Ilocos Sur. Step back into the past as you take in the Hispanic character of this UNESCO World Heritage site through the sights of local architecture and the smell of colonial-era Filipino food. Also, one can’t miss taking a stroll down Calle Crisologo to meet the locals and shop for affordable trinkets.

Come stay at the Hotel Luna (rate: ₱3,003 – ₱6,795), a four-star hotel found a short way from the city’s main attractions and known for their quality service and array of amenities.

Baguio

With the remnants of the summer heat, Baguio is perfect for chilling. Located high up in Benguet, immerse yourself in the city’s charming culture all while enjoying the cool temperature. Sites like Burnham Park can offer you a jam-packed day of fun activities and sight-seeing.

Immerse more inwhat Baguio has to offer by staying at The Forest Lodge (rate: ₱3,742 – ₱6,499) or The Manor (rate: ₱4,481 – ₱15,017), both at Camp John Hay. Enjoy their many quality services and conveniences while also taking advantage of their proximity to popular landmarks. For a more instagrammable experience, head on over to the millennial-themed Orchard Hotel (rate:  ₱2,413 – ₱4,924).

San Juan, La Union

If you’ve been missing the beach, head on over to La Union’s San Juan, the renowned surfing capital of Northern Philippines. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert surfer, take advantage of the south swell to catch the best waves.

Get closer to the ocean in the Awesome Hotel (rate:  ₱5,121 – ₱8,173), known by past visitors as a place that lives up to its name with their enjoyable aqua activities and a beautiful view of the ocean. You can also try the Balinese-inspired Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa (rate: ₱5,318 – ₱8,567) for a unique resort-living experience.

Nasugbu

Another popular beach destination is Nasugbu, Batangas. Visit locations like Fortune Island and Calayo Beach where you can engage in activities like camping, snorkeling, scuba diving, or even just rest and relax on pristine beaches.

Stay at the Club Punta Fuego (rate: ₱6,696 – ₱10,340), a premier membership resort that provides its guests with superb views of Nasugbu and fun land and water activities. You can also try the tropical contemporary Pico Sands Hotel (rate: ₱3,594 – ₱9,355) or the beachfront Canyon Cove Hotel & Spa (rate: ₱3,500 – ₱6,751)

San Juan, Batangas

Moving on to another popular destination in Batangas, we have the city of San Juan! This city is home to famous spots like Laiya Beach and Hugon Beach, where you can relax on pristine shores or take part in various water activities. The Laiya Adventure Park is also an option for the more daring spirits who want a thrilling vacation.

Escape to paradise in the luxurious Acuaverde Beach Resort (rate: ₱5,551 – ₱9,451) with a beachfront that lets you enjoy the beautiful view and soothing sounds of the ocean. The Acuatico Beach Resort (₱7,201 – ₱15,352) also offers the perfect getaway with their famed infinity pool and deluxe amenities. For a more cozy vibe, you can try Casa Kalinaw (rate: ₱20,000 – ₱30,000), an exclusive and modern beachfront vacation home.

Puerto Galera

Take a trip to Mindoro and experience the diversity offered by Puerto Galera. With its prime sites for beaches and coral reef diving, the town is a flourishing tourist attraction. Avail of their available tour packages to make the most of the inland and island experience.

The Lalaguna Villas Luxury Dive Resort & Spa (rate: ₱2,757 – ₱4,973) provides a private villa-style atmosphere. As an authorized PADI 5 star dive resort, they are known for having the best diving centers. The Sunset at Aninuan Beach Resort (rate: ₱4,750 – ₱9,451) and the Manor at Puerto Galera (rate: ₱4,100 – ₱5,251) also offer great accommodations for a fun and comfortable vacation.

Boracay Island

Last but definitely not the least, the province of Aklan boasts one of the most popular destinations in the country, Boracay Island. Aside from lounging on its beautiful white-sand beaches, you can also engage in exciting activities such as island hopping, paraw sailing, and wakeboarding.

Add luxury to your vacation by staying at the renowned Henann Crystal Sands Resort (rate: ₱4,874 – ₱10,931) that boasts world-class rooms, amenities, and services. In addition, the Belmont Hotel Boracay (rate: ₱3,003 – ₱4,087) and Astoria Current (rate: ₱4,825 – ₱8,419) can both provide either a relaxing or exhilarating experience with their different offerings.

Check out the list of travel requirements for each location in the table below:

Location	Travel Requirements
Vigan	Negative RT-PCR test result Valid ID DOT accredited travel agent booking confirmation SafePass QR code
Baguio	Negative RT-PCR or antigen test within 72 hours prior to arrival QR-coded tourist pass issued at least 24 hours before travelling Mandatory triage procedures upon arrival
San Juan, La Union	Negative RT-PCR test or Phillipine Red Cross (PRC) issued saliva test taken within 72 hours prior travel Valid ID Booking confirmationQR code
Nasugbu	Negative rapid antigen test results Advance resort booking
San Juan, Batangas	Confirmed resort booking Accomplished health declaration form Medical certificate Valid ID
Puerto Galera	Negative RT PCR test taken within 24 hours prior travel Confirmed booking with a resort or hotel QR code S-Pass registration
Boracay Island	Negative RT-PCR and saliva test results Hotel booking confirmation S-Pass registration Online health declaration form Valid ID

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