Filipinos love to eat and if they know any foreign friends who are planning to visit the Philippines, food adventures will always be an important entry in the itinerary.

Its capital region, Metro Manila, is a buzzing metropolis composed of several major cities in the Philippines. Being one of the most progressive and dynamic regions in the country, it is also home to several food destinations that warmly welcome tourists and satisfies locals to the true taste of Filipino and international flavors, without breaking the bank.

If the metro will be your first stop, here is a list of the cheap and delicious restaurants to try in Metro Manila.

1. Rodic’s Diner

Location: UP Town Center, Katipunan Ave., Quezon City, and several other branches

Average Cost: 120 – 150 per person

If you want to have a taste of the world-famous Filipino tapsilog (tapa or cured beef, sinangag or fried garlic rice, and itlog or sunny side egg) then Rodic’s Diner should be on top of your list for the must-try budget-friendly restaurants in Manila. Aside from their ­“silog” meals, they also serve other Filipino food choices like caldereta, lechon-paksiw, and many more.

Rodic’s Diner has been around since 1949 with their original location inside the University of the Philippines campus, Diliman in Quezon City. However, a devastating fire destroyed the entire UP Shopping Center that housed several commercial establishments including the said diner.

2. Kanto Freestyle Breakfast

Location:  Malate, Manila City, and several other branches in Metro Manila

Average Cost: 100 – 150 per person

If you’re a big fan of breakfast meals and 24/7 food spots, then this affordable breakfast place in Metro Manila is perfect for you. Kanto Freestyle Breakfast is located at the center of Manila City, Malate, one of the busiest places in the metro.

What is so different about this place is its long list of menu, offering several Filipino breakfast items to satisfy your cravings – and to even get you ready for a long day of exploring the big city. Some recommended food choices are their Batangas beef tapa (cured beef) and their famous Honey Garlic Chicken.

3. Komoro Soba

Location: SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City

Average Cost: Below 200 per person

If you’re craving for some authentic yet affordable Japanese food in Metro Manila, then head over to SM Megamall in Mandaluyong. This humble Japanese restaurant has been a go-to place for many Filipinos who want to taste the oriental flavors of Japanese cooking – without breaking the bank.

Several food items that you can choose from include common Japanese dishes like Donburi, Sukiyakidon, selections of sushi and sashimi, gyoza, miso soup, ramen, udon, and more.

4. Greg & Sally Tree Garden Café

Location: Marikina Heights, Marikina City

Average Cost: 120 – 250 per person

Greg & Sally’s place is located in a not-so-typical restaurant setup. In fact, it’s more like your grandmother’s garden, with blooming flowers and strong and sturdy trees surrounding the dining area. In fact, it is located in one of the greenest and most peaceful cities in the metro, Marikina.

The restaurant serves several creative takes on Filipino comfort food and offers a relaxing experience among the greenery of this hidden foodie gem. While outdoor dining is the highlight of this place, they also have indoor dining areas for a more private gathering.

5. Bugis Singapore Street Food

Location: Nicanor Roxas Street, Quezon City

Average Cost: 195 – 250 per person

If you’ve been to Singapore, the name Bugis might be familiar to you. Actually, the food place got their name from a major hawker street in Singapore, giving customers an idea of what they have to offer: a wide selection of Singaporean street food.

Experience the Singaporean flavors with a dash of Filipino hospitality in this affordable Quezon City restaurant. The place offers a variety of dishes like Laksa, Hainanese Chicken, and other hawker-style selections. For beverages, they also have several fruit juices to quench your thirst from devouring the flavorful dishes in front of you.

6. Bacolod Chicken House Express

Location: Metropolitan Avenue, Santa Cruz, Makati City

Average Cost: 150 per person

Yes, you read it right. You can experience the flavors of the famous Bacolod Chicken Inasal (roast chicken) even in Metro Manila, thanks to Bacolod Chicken House Express’ original and authentic menu.

Bacolod Chicken Inasal Express has their main branch in Bacolod City, but the success and popularity of this restaurant enabled it to branch out and conquer the Metro Manila food scene. For the best experience, choose the leg part paired with their garlic rice, and dip them in the spicy and zesty combination of vinegar/soy sauce with calamansi and chili.

7. Mad Mark’s

Location: UP Town Center, Quezon City

Average Cost: 160 – 300 per person

You don’t have to spend a fortune just to try the juiciest and meatiest steaks in Metro Manila. If you’re an avid meat lover and want to experience a filling yet affordable steak meal, Mad Mark’s is the place for you.

Aside from their delicious and tasty steaks, they also have dessert in the menu – and it includes a special home-made ice cream. While this place has several branches in Metro Manila, you’ll find their original location always packed and fully-booked during rush hour.

8. Hawker Chan

Location: Mall of Asia, Pasay City

Average Cost: 200 – 300 per person

No, you’re not imagining things – Hawker Chan, the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant owned by Michelin star chef Chan Hong Meng, is now in the Philippines. This formerly hidden gem in Singapore has finally spread its wings and opened several branches in Asia, and Metro Manila was lucky enough to be one of its new homes.

So what food should you order when you visit Hawker Chan? Of course, it should be their Soya Sauce Chicken and Noodle – the winning dish that made all of these possible. You can also combine this soy-based chicken dish with other food staples like rice. Other options also include roasted pork as well as a deliciously flavored pork rib dish.

 Conclusion

So, there you have it: the most affordable food places in Metro Manila that you should never miss. Hopefully, this article has helped you navigate the culinary wonders of this major Philippine region. Have fun and bon appétit!

The Philippines is one of best destinations to travel to during the hottest months of the year, thanks to its long list of white sand beaches and beautiful islands that will make this bucket list-worthy country a real paradise. However, did you know that aside from being a perfect summer getaway, the archipelago has also a lot to offer during the long months of the rainy season?

You don’t have to feel gloomy about the rainy days – a season that starts in June and ends in October, especially if you’re used to being on the road and traveling during the long weekends. There are still places that can be ideal destinations during the rainy season in the Philippines. All you have to do, first, is to keep on reading.

Here are some of the best rainy season travel destinations in the Philippines that you can visit right now.

Pagsanjan Fall, Laguna

This exciting rainy day destination is just hours away from Manila. Located in the province of Laguna, Pagsanjan Falls (also known as Cavinti Falls) is one of the most popular falls in the country and is a major overnight tourist site for those who want to take on quick weekend adventures.

Rainy days can give the mountains a generous amount of water, providing a solid abundance of water to deliver a thrilling performance to its audience. If you’re into hiking, trekking and river cruising, this place is perfect for your rainy day travel cravings.

Baguio, Cordillera

It takes guts and an adventurous soul to travel to Baguio during the rainy season. Why? The long and winding road leading to this foggy city can be relatively intimidating for an untrained driver, but trust us, it’s all going to be worth it.

Yes, Baguio is dubbed as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”, but much fortunate wanderlusts who gave this place a chance have discovered the beauty of this mountainous city – a rare experience that can only be witnessed during the rainy days.

Imagine waking up on a cold and foggy morning, with a hot cup of coffee to warm you hands and heart, as you relax and just enjoy the peaceful whispers of nature.

Baler, Aurora

If you’re into surfing and extreme fun, Baler, Aurora should be on top of your list for the best travel destinations even on rainy days. Just like how the mountains are blessed with an abundance of rain to create the most fascinating dancing waterfalls, this surfing destination has a grand welcome to offer: higher waves and more exciting swells for the most daring surfers out there.

Siargao, La Union, and even Guiuan in Eastern Samar can also be alternatives for you. However, keep in mind that you have to be careful and always stay safe. Surf with a group and make sure that you have what it takes to take on the wild waves of the rainy and windy days.

Siquijor

This enchanted place is known for its mystic and folkloric stories because of its notoriety as an island where magic and sorcery thrive. While many superstitious Filipinos believe in the legends associated with Siquijor, some travelers have discovered the true beauty of this paradise.

Beyond its mysticism and scary stories of witches and shamans, Siquijor is an underrated Philippine destination. Even during the rainy season, the island is a great find for enjoying a comfortable stroll at the beach under the cloudy skies.  Its mesmerizing waterfalls scattered around the islands can also give you the glimpse of the calmness and peace that nature can offer to those who are willing to try.

Anawangin Cove, Zambales

Another summer destination that is also a perfect place for a rainy season getaway is Anawangin Cove in Zambales. In fact, the true beauty of this tourist magnet can be experienced during the rainy days not only because crowds are fewer, but also because the foliage is richer and more vibrant.

If you want a calm and quiet weekend, this place is perfect even during the cloudy days. You have to keep in mind, however, that you can only choose this destination on the cloudy days with light drizzles – and needless to say, not during violent torrential rains.

In other words, if you’re going to stay for a day or two in this paradise, make sure to check the weather forecast. Why? The place is relatively far from the town center in case of emergencies.

Cebu Province, Visayas

It rarely rains in Cebu, especially during the rainy days. While the rest of the country is under the dark and heavy clouds of the season, this province can be really bright and sunny. That’s why it’s a perfect destination during the country’s rainy season especially if you can’t last months without the heat of the sun.

Aside from cheaper airplane tickets in contrary to the peak summer season, rainy season in Cebu Province can still be a fun beach travel adventure. Island hopping, free diving, and even just enjoying the historical sites and destinations can be on your list of activities.

Cebu City, the capital of the province has also a lot to offer. Culture, nightlife, partying and even just food tripping can make all the boredom of the gloomy rainy days go away.

Cagayan de Oro

If you’re an adrenaline junkie and want to experience extreme fun and adventure, then Cagayan de Oro is the best place for you – even during the long months of rainy season. Whitewater rafting, spelunking, and even just enjoying what the island has to offer are here to make your stay exciting.

Make safety a priority

Now that you have your list of the best travel destinations in the country especially during the most boring days of the rainy season, you only have to remember one very important thing: safety. Make sure that you’re traveling safe and well-prepared in all your adventures.

Keep your lines open, tell a friend or a family where you’re going and always plan the trip ahead. Do your research and consult the latest weather forecasts before saying YES to anything extreme and off the road.

Take care and have a blast!

Southeast Asia has always been a popular destination for travelers from around the world because of its richness in cultural, historical, and natural travel experiences. The Philippines, for instance, have managed to always rank high on the list for the most favorite travel destinations in the region, especially for international wanderlusts.

Traveling to the “Pearl of the Orient Seas”

The Philippines has one of the fastest emerging economies in the continent, and this status is helping local and national tourist centers to promote the country’s brand as a top travel destination. With the improvements on the nation’s current infrastructure and continuously developing hospitality industry, the travel sector is looking at an optimistic future.

While some travel destinations around Asia can often be relatively expensive, fully experiencing the wonders of the Philippines don’t have to break the bank – if you know where to start.

Here are some typical costs for backpacking the Philippines in 2018:

• Dorm bed in a hostel: $5–7 USD per night
• Public ferry ride: $4–6 USD per ride
• Jeepney ride: 20–50 cents
• Street food: $1–3 USD
• Restaurant meals: $4–6 USD
• Long-distance bus: $8–10 USD
• Domestic flight: $40–70 USD
• Local beer: $1–2 USD
• 1.5L bottle of water: 75 cents
• Island-hopping: $14–25 USD
• Diving with whale sharks: $25 USD

Here are some helpful tips for traveling to the Philippines on a low budget:

1. Be on the lookout for promo flights.

Two of the Philippines’ major airline companies, Cebu Pacific Air and Air Asia offer extremely cheap promotional flights to international and domestic travel destinations. If you’re coming from outside of the country and is planning to explore several island-destinations, booking promo fares is your best chance to save hundreds of dollars.

Pro Tip: Booking and travel period

Take note that while these airline companies give out promo flights with fares for as low as $10 several times a year, the booking period is often limited to 3-5 days. You also have to take into account competing with thousands of other passengers who are patiently waiting and refreshing their browsers for every schedule promo flight bookings.

Most importantly, the travel period for these promo flights is often set in 6 months to one year. This means that you already have to finalize your travel plans a year in advance. For others, it’s the other way around: Booking a promo flight is first on their list and the travel planning will follow right after. 

2. Read traveler’s reviews and consult forums.

Traveling can be stressful especially if you don’t do your homework enough. While there are others who don’t really make plans and just hit the road with whatever knowledge and experience they have, it’s not advisable for beginner travelers who are still learning the tricks of surviving the most amazing yet challenging adventures.

That’s why it’s a smart move to read as much as you can. Consult travel forums from trusted tourist community websites, and read travel articles form reliable and updated sources. So why are these tips important? Two things: to save money and protect your budget.

Experienced travelers offer financial wisdom that can tell you which accommodation, travel destination, or even food place, is worth your every penny.  For instance, some cheap accommodations can offer a more meaningful experience than staying at a luxury hotel; some commercialized food places will cost more but local, cheaper counterparts can taste more authentic; taking a taxi is more expensive, but alternative transport vehicles can take you to the same destination with a lower fare.

3. Travel light; travel smart.

Wherever you want to travel, whether it’s in the Philippines or elsewhere, the best travel advice is to travel light. Don’t bring your entire closet with you, especially if you’re planning to explore several places for a few weeks.

Aside from not needing to pay extra for check-in luggage, a humble yet versatile backpack can give you the freedom to be anywhere without worrying about space, comfort and that good old back pain from carrying around the unnecessary load.

4. Follow a DIY itinerary.

Creating a DIY travel itinerary may require patience and perseverance but it will all be worth it – and your bank account will thank you for your effort.

Relying on a travel agency to plan and map out your trip can be comfortable, especially for beginner travelers – but it’s a totally different story if you want to travel on a budget. Doing the planning yourself means reducing the need to pay for services and information that you, yourself, can accomplish and acquire.

5. Eat, drink, and sleep like a local.

Aside from enjoying a more authentic travel experience, eating, drinking and sleeping like a local will help you budget your trip efficiently.

There are several destinations in the Philippines that offer cheaper accommodations. Options can be Bed and Breakfast, AirBnB, hostels, and even lodging houses where you can stay with a local family for a cheaper yet more genuine experience of getting to know the true Pinoy culture.

Moreover, finding the best food places don’t have to mean searching through a list of expensive restaurants. Ask a local, or other travelers who have been to this part of the country and you’ll surely get the most interesting list of local restaurants and underrated food spots.

6. Take the road less traveled.

The Philippines is composed of over seven thousand islands facing the Pacific Ocean. As a tropical country with two constant seasons (hot and dry season), it’s an ideal destination for beach lovers, sun worshippers and nature enthusiasts.

While there are famous travel locations and island getaways that have caught the attention of international wanderlusts, there are emerging and often underrated travel destinations around the country that deserve the same spotlight – only that they’re more affordable, virgin, unspoiled, and more exciting.

Most famous places are already highly commercialized and are often twice or thrice more expensive than these undiscovered destinations. Find them, and be one of the first to experience their own definition of paradise.

7. Socialize and create connections.

Last but not the least is to socialize and create connections whether with your fellow travelers or with the locals.

One of the reasons why people travel is to meet like-minded individuals who want to share their stories and go in adventures with their crowd. By making these connections yourself, you can benefit from the inspiring lessons, helpful tips, and most importantly, practical and budget-friendly travel advice from locals and travelers alike.

8. Be Smart About Exchanging Money

No matter how you opt to change money overseas, fees are almost inevitable; the key is keeping them to a minimum. And should you desire to use your credit card, avoid using ATMs that charges commissions. Tourist can use Metro bank or Citi bank. They do not charge commissions on foreign credit cards.

A true traveler knows how to find the most wonderful destinations without having to spend thousands of dollars just to have a great time. Money cannot buy happiness, and even the best memories are priceless. Hopefully, this article will help you discover the true beauty of traveling in the Philippines and experiencing its rich and wonderful culture.

Blessed with stunning natural views, rich culture and history, the Philippines has received worldwide recognition. According to World Heritage Convention, there are at least eight sites in the country that have made their way to the World Heritage List. The list itself is divided into three different types of universal heritage: natural, cultural, and the mixed type of both nature and culture.

1. Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park, Palawan

UNESCO put this marine park in the World Heritage List in 1993 and it is the first Philippine site to receive such recognition. The organization committee even declared the 33,200 ha traditional island region to be of irreplaceably valuable due to its coral reef beauty and diversity along with a wide range of sea species there. The place provides such wonderful marine life that even marine biologists claim to be hard to find elsewhere in the world. There are over 350 species of coral, 500 species of fish, and various kinds of whales, dolphins, sharks and turtles.

The intensely beautiful underwater park is included in the natural property category as it does not merely provide marvellous views, but it also helps keep balance of the natural environment. Aside from its biodiversity, the coral walls of Tubbataha are also wonderful diving spots for tourists (which are usually compared to the coral walls of the Great Barrier Reef).

From Manila, tourists can take regular fights to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. At the airport, you can then take a motorcycle ride to the pier, where boats going to Tubbataha Reef are available.

2. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan

Both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature, this national park is a combination of several astonishing natural features: river, mountain, rainforest, and plains. The river is as long as 8.2 km and it is considered one of the longest underground rivers in the world. Other than the length, the river is a rare natural wonder as the water comes from an inland source and it flows into the sea. On the other hand, the highest peak of the mountainous area is as high as 1,028 meters above sea level and it is even more unique with the addition of limestone plateaus. The rainforest itself has its own charm. It is home to a wide range of both endangered and endemic flora and fauna: calamian deer, mouse deer, Palawan bearcat, skunks, wild pigs, etc.

The national park is located 81 km away from Puerto Pricesa downtown area, in St Paul mountain range and 360 km southwest of Manila. Everyone wanting to visit the underground river must apply for a permit to do so, and because of limited capacity and high demand, it’s best to book a few days in advance.

3. Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao

Despite its location in the remote Cordillera mountainous area, this is one of the places in the country that is definitely worth a visit. Getting to Banaue and Ifugao is difficult and long, but well worth the journey north. The journey from Manila to Banaue takes about 9 hours by bus (traffic can add about 2 hours). The other option is to fly to Baguio and then take a bus from there, but it doesn’t save much time. The best time to go is between February and May end, when it is least likely that the views will be obscured by low level clouds.

Not only attractive for tourists, the place has grown the curiosity of scholars, as well. In fact, they have estimated that the setting of the rice terraces dated back from 2,000 years ago. It has shown the unity of man and nature: how man forms a natural landscape to suit his needs. Completing the tranquillity of the paddy terraces is the sound of flowing water from the irrigation canals.

Apart from the popular paddy terraces in Ifugao, there are other sites, although not quite as majestic, across the country. They scatter in Kalinga-Apayao, Abra, and Benguet, areas with approximate height of 700 to 1,500 meters. In fact, all these terraces take up around 20,000 km square or 7% out of the country’s total land mass.

4. Historic City of Vigan in Ilocos Sur

Back in the days when Spain colonialized the country, Vigan or what was better known as Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan was amongst the top three cities holding the most significant roles in the Philippines. The importance can be seen through the constructions around the city: religious buildings, big houses and other architectural buildings used for political activities.

With such historical backgrounds, the city is a proof of the culture combination between the foreign and local. There are several buildings representing the mixture, such as Plaza Salcedo, Saint Paul’s Cathedral and College, The Arzopispado, the Provincial Capitol Building, Simbaan a Bassit (a cemetery chapel), Calle Crisologo (a residential area with a cobbled stone street), and Burgos Museum.

5. Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

In the Philippines, out of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, only one can be found in Mindanao. That is the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary found in Davao Oriental, the only mountain range heritage site in the country. It is home to a number of threatened flora and fauna, Philippine eagle, Philippine cockatoo, Philippine warty pig, Philippine pygmy fruit bat.

6. Beautiful churches around the country

Some of the country’s most embellished churches are Church of San Agustin, Nuestra Senora dela Asuncion, San Agustin Church in Manila, and Santo Tomas de Villanueva.

Sharing a similar name are the Church of San Agustin (known as the Paoay Church) in Illocos Norte and San Agustin Church in Manila. Although they both also share a similar concept of enduring earthquakes, the styles of the buildings are different. While the one in Illocos Norte has fourteen massive buttresses in the shape of the letter S, each of which is topped with a finial in the form of a pyramid to support its walls, the one in Manila exerts a raft type foundation allowing the construction to sway during an earthquake.

On the other hand, Nuestra Senola dela Asuncion (known as the Santa Maria Church) has Mediterranean look due to its location on the top of a hill and Santo Tomas de Villanueva (known as the Miagao Church) owns a strong fortress image because of its squat structure and its pair of massive bells.