PH is 3rd best New Year destination in Asia—here’s how (and why)

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So, your week’s worth of vacation leave has finally been approved by your boss. Anticipation is building up as you daydream of trading your daily grind for some real rest and relaxation. The only dilemma? You’re still clueless on where to set the compass for that New Year escape.

Well, here’s a little something that might just steer you in the right direction: An established travel agency has recently released a report that reveals the best Asian destinations for kicking off 2024. They’ve analyzed their internal ticket data throughout 2023. And guess what? The Philippines emerges as the third-best destination, only following behind Thailand and Vietnam.

What exactly makes the archipelago a prime pick for the holidays, though? The report breaks that down, too. “We identified the top travel destinations suitable for different groups of travelers—including solo travelers, families, and couples or friends.”

Legazpi City for solo travelers

If you’re a solo wanderer seeking adventure *and* soul-searching activities, Legazpi City can be the ultimate buffet for your senses. It has all the perfect ingredients to satiate your wanderlust: natural wonders, cultural or religious experiences, good food, and warm hospitality.

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Up for an adrenaline rush? ATV rides around the Mayon Volcano can make you feel like an RPG character on a challenge to look for ancient treasures. Want to spice up your trip? The city’s local cuisine (say, Bicol Express) can do that—literally.

But Legazpi City isn’t only about the thrill; it also offers a quieter side for the soul-searcher in you. The Daraga Church and Cagsawa Ruins can provide a backdrop to your thoughts. (You can also just grab a cup of locally grown coffee, find a cozy spot, and let the view inspire your introspection.)

Coron, Palawan for couples and friends

There’s a superstition that kissing your partner as the clock strikes midnight on Jan. 1 guarantees a whole year of love and happiness. Many individuals also believe that those you spend the first day of the New Year with will be with you for the rest of the year.

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And what better way to seal that deal than in a tropical wonderland that has witnessed various love stories and platonic escapades? Whether your plan is to get a midnight smooch or clink champagne glasses with the squad as fireworks light up the sky, Coron is an ideal place for core memory-making.

For couples, a private island-hopping tour awaits—explore hidden lagoons, dive into crystal-clear lakes, and share intimate moments amid breathtaking landscapes. There’s a bunch of exciting activities for friends as well: water sports, nightlife, and beach parties, among others.

You may also like: Private island in Palawan wins global award as one of world’s best

Baguio City for families

We’ve all heard about it—Baguio City has established a reputation of being “overrated” in recent years. A number of visitors argue that the city has lost its charm due to overcrowding, heavy traffic, and commercialization.

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While this may be true to some extent, the report suggests that it remains a top choice among families. Perhaps it’s the cool climate that makes Baguio City a must-visit for those with kids in tow—or maybe it’s the affordable but high-quality goods from various shops and night markets.

Whatever the case, this touristy spot (not to disregard the urban challenges it faces, though) has almost everything one needs for a family-friendly New Year’s celebration. And that’s also probably why travelers still swear by it.

El Nido, Palawan for everyone

Bringing along the entire social circle? El Nido might just be the place to be. With its scenic landscapes and (seemingly unending) recreational offerings, this gem in Palawan caters to the whims and fancies of everyone—families, couples, friends, and singles alike. Think island hopping, cafe crawling, and a whole bunch of other activities that would make even the most introverted homebody consider stepping out of their room.

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Now, for those who are not exactly thrilled by the idea of elbowing your way through (and rubbing shoulders with) hordes of tourists or getting lost in the chaos of peak season, we also got you. We’ve previously crafted a list for the relatively lesser-visited Philippine spots you might want to consider and another for our recommended international side trip destinations.