|
Varsity's Choice Tips for backpacking trips: The Philippines by Michelle Chan Known for its beaches, volcanoes, nightlife, convenient transport and diverse culture, the Philippines is a destination of backpacking for beginners, travellers say. Travel consultant Chu Kin-gai, who visited the Philippines with his girlfriend to celebrate his graduation five years ago, described the country and its capital, Manila, as excellent choices for short budget travels. "Our favorite activity there is diving as the coral reefs are really stunning," Chu, 27, said. "And we enjoy the nightlife and shopping there." He was also impressed by the stand-up shows and poetry readings in some local bars. Not only fascinated by the nightlife, Chu and his girlfriend were also surprised by the varieties and hugeness of the shopping malls. "You can find all the brands you can think of in the malls, such as Gap, even Armani or Ralph Lauren," Chu said. He suggested people to spend a 20-day trip in the country. "Twenty days are only just enough if you're going to visit the major islands of the Visayas, such as Cebu, Bohol, Panay, Negros, and Donsol," Chu suggested. Donsol, about a 14-hour bus trip from Manila or an overnight sailing from Cebu, is one of the only places with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. "You can swim with them as close as you want, but we dare not to," Chu said. Another traveller Wong Sau-jing, who took her first backpacking trip to the Philippines last summer, said: "The Philippines is definitely a good place for backpacking beginners and also for single women. It has an added bonus that people there speak English." The 24-year-old secondary school teacher suggested travellers to go to the Pasig River where people bathe on the banks. Another must-see spot is Taal, the world's smallest active volcano, which is on the south of Manila, Wong said. However, when shopping and bargaining, visitors have to watch out for pickpockets, Wong added. |
OTHER STORIES IN VARSITY'S CHOICE |