Table of Contents
Introduction
We’ve all been there, stuck in Metro Manila traffic and daydreaming of our next vacation, where we can finally trade the honking cars for some well-deserved R&R. So, what’s the plan, kababayan? If you’re searching for the perfect must-visit Asian cities that doesn’t break the bank, you’re in the right place!
We know the struggle is real when it comes to finding a vacation spot that won’t leave us with an empty wallet, but at the same time, offers an unforgettable experience. Fear not, fellow wanderlust-stricken Pinoys, for I am here to share my expertise on the top 5 Asian cities we absolutely love to visit. This list is for you, the hardworking Filipino who deserves a break from the urban jungle of Metro Manila.
So, sit back, relax, and let me guide you through the Top 5 Asian Cities Filipinos Go to for Vacation! Because we all know, “Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan,” but sometimes, it’s nice to be a dayuhan somewhere else, right?
1. Penang, Malaysia
Roundtrip airfare starting at: 3,090.00 PHP
History
Ah, Penang – where history comes alive, and we don’t mean the kind from our high school textbooks. Sharing the nickname “Pearl of the Orient” with Manila, Penang has a rich past that dates back to the 1700s, when it was a British trading post. Fast forward to today, and you’ll see that its historical charm has only gotten better with age – like our very own adobo!
Culture
In Penang, the culture is as diverse as the toppings on your favorite halo-halo. With its mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and even European influences, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled across continents in just one city. Be prepared to experience a cultural fiesta, with colorful temples, lively festivals, and friendly locals who’ll remind you of your kapitbahay back home.
Attractions
Now, let’s talk about the attractions that’ll make you want to book a one-way ticket to Penang. For starters, there’s George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can stroll through charming streets and snap selfies with quirky street art. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on the Penang Hill funicular railway – it’s like EDSA, but with scenic views and no traffic! Plus, don’t forget to visit Kek Lok Si Temple and the Penang Butterfly Farm, because who wouldn’t want a photo with a majestic temple or a kaleidoscope of butterflies?
Food
Foodies, rejoice! Penang is a gastronomic paradise that’ll make you forget all about your diet plans. From street food to fine dining, you’ll find mouth-watering dishes that’ll leave you craving for more. Savor the famous Penang char kway teow, a stir-fried noodle dish that can give our pancit a run for its money. And if you’re feeling brave, try the local delicacy – durian, the “king of fruits” – but be warned, it’s definitely an acquired taste (just like balut!). So, pack your bags and your appetite, and get ready for a food trip like no other!
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2. Singapore
Roundtrip airfare starting at: 7,328.88 PHP
History
Welcome to Singapore, where chewing gum is banned but their history is anything but boring! It all started as a humble fishing village, and now it’s the little red dot we know and love. With a history that spans from the 13th century to the 1965 independence, Singapore’s transformation is like watching your favorite telenovela character go from rags to riches, but without the dramatic crying scenes.
Culture
Singapore’s cultural scene is like a perfect pot of sinigang – a flavorful blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences that leaves you wanting more. In this melting pot, you’ll find people celebrating various religious festivals and events like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, and Christmas with equal gusto. It’s like an extended Filipino fiesta season – but with more fireworks!
Attractions
Now, let’s talk about what makes Singapore a favorite destination for us Pinoys. First, there’s the iconic Marina Bay Sands, which is not just a hotel, but a whole vacation experience in itself (just don’t go broke trying to win at the casino!). Want to unleash your inner Darna or Captain Barbell? Visit Universal Studios Singapore and experience the thrilling rides and attractions that’ll make you feel like a superhero. And let’s not forget the picturesque Gardens by the Bay, where you can pretend you’re in Avatar’s world – minus the blue skin, of course.
Food
You know we Pinoys love our food, and Singapore delivers! With hawker centers that rival our carinderias, you’ll find dishes that’ll leave your taste buds dancing, like the famous Hainanese chicken rice or the spicy laksa. But don’t worry, you’ll still find a taste of home here – Jollibee has made its way to the Lion City, so you can always enjoy your Chickenjoy fix. So, ready your tastebuds and your wallet, because Singapore’s food scene is worth every calorie and dollar!
3. Bangkok, Thailand
Roundtrip airfare starting at: 8,195.00 PHP
History
Bangkok, or “Krung Thep” as the locals call it, has a history as fascinating as your lola’s bedtime stories. Established in 1782, this city has seen its fair share of kings, queens, and political dramas – and we’re not talking about teleserye-level intrigues here. From ancient ruins to glittering palaces, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine and traveled back to the days of Siam.
Culture
In Bangkok, the culture is as warm and welcoming as your favorite bowl of kare-kare. With its rich Buddhist heritage, you’ll find majestic temples and smiling monks that’ll give you a sense of peace – a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila traffic. Plus, the locals are so friendly, you might even mistake them for your long-lost Filipino relatives!
Attractions
When it comes to attractions, Bangkok has something for everyone – just like the endless options at a Pinoy fiesta buffet. For starters, visit the Grand Palace, where you’ll feel like royalty, or at least an extra in a historical drama. If shopping is your cardio, then get ready to burn some serious calories at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you can haggle your way to amazing deals. And, of course, there’s the famous Khao San Road, where you can party like there’s no tomorrow – just like a wild Sinulog festival!
Food
If you’re a fan of spicy food, then you’ll absolutely love the culinary scene in Bangkok. From street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, this city offers a smorgasbord of flavors that’ll make you forget all about your beach body goals. Sink your teeth into a plate of pad Thai, slurp down a steaming bowl of tom yum, and treat yourself to some sweet mango sticky rice. Just be ready with a glass of water, because Bangkok’s spicy dishes can give our Bicol Express a run for its money!
4. Hanoi, Vietnam
Roundtrip airfare starting at: 9,962.50 PHP
History
Hanoi, a city with a history so rich, it’s like the savory broth of your favorite pho. Dating back more than a thousand years, Hanoi has seen it all – from dynasties to wars, and now, throngs of tourists eager to uncover its past. Trust me, it’s more exciting than your last family reunion – without the awkward Tita questions!
Culture
Hanoi’s culture is as vibrant and lively as a jeepney cruising down EDSA. With its unique blend of Chinese, French, and Southeast Asian influences, Hanoi offers a cultural experience that’s like a refreshing glass of sago’t gulaman on a hot day. Immerse yourself in the city’s art, architecture, and traditions, and you’ll come home with enough stories to rival your Lola’s chismis.
Attractions
When it comes to attractions, Hanoi is like a perfectly assembled boodle fight – there’s something for everyone! Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can channel your inner Zen master. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, navigate the bustling streets of the Old Quarter – it’s like Divisoria, but with less “suki” vendors. Don’t forget to visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, where you can pay homage to the greats and brush up on your history – all while snapping Insta-worthy photos, of course!
Food
It’s no secret that Filipinos love to eat, and Hanoi’s food scene will leave you drooling like a hungry aspin. From streetside stalls to chic cafes, this city offers a smorgasbord of delicious dishes that’ll make you want to trade your adobo for a piping hot bowl of pho. Don’t miss out on trying the iconic bánh mì, a Vietnamese sandwich that’s like a love child between your favorite pandesal and a hearty French baguette. And, of course, we can’t forget about the Vietnamese coffee, which is strong enough to rival the kick of our beloved kapeng barako!
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5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Roundtrip airfare starting at: 10,830.00 PHP
History
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, where history is as rich as the leche flan at your last family gathering. Previously known as Saigon, this city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, as well as its fair share of war dramas that could put your favorite telenovelas to shame. With a past that’s as intriguing as a plot twist in a Pinoy soap opera, you’ll find yourself drawn to its fascinating narrative.
Culture
In Ho Chi Minh City, the culture is as colorful and diverse as a Pinoy parol during the holiday season. With its mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences, this bustling metropolis offers a cultural experience that’s as exciting as your first sip of ice-cold Red Horse. So, brace yourself for a cultural rollercoaster ride, complete with vibrant markets, ancient temples, and locals who’ll make you feel right at home.
Attractions
If you’re looking for attractions, Ho Chi Minh City has got you covered like a well-stocked sari-sari store. Start your journey at the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace, where you can brush up on your history – minus the pop quizzes. Then, take a trip to the jaw-droppingly beautiful Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, where you can light a candle and say a little prayer for your favorite basketball team. And, for a truly unique experience, explore the labyrinthine Cu Chi Tunnels, which will make you appreciate the wide, open spaces of Luneta Park even more.
Food
Ho Chi Minh City’s food scene is like a fiesta for your taste buds, with dishes that’ll have you shouting “Mangan tayo!” in no time. Savor the local flavors at the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can indulge in tasty treats like bánh xèo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes) and gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) that can give our lumpiang sariwa a run for its money. And, of course, don’t forget to try the legendary pho – it’s like a warm hug from your Lola in a bowl. So, pack your appetite and say “xin chào” to a culinary adventure in Ho Chi Minh City!
Bonus: Cebu, Philippines
Roundtrip airfare starting at: 8,195.00 PHP
History
Cebu, the Queen City of the South, has a history as rich and enticing as a plate of lechon at a Pinoy fiesta. And come on, how can we talk about top vacation spots without including one of our very own cities? As the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, Cebu’s past is as eventful as your favorite teleserye – from the arrival of Magellan to the Battle of Mactan. Trust me, Cebu’s history has more twists and turns than a jeepney ride through the city’s narrow streets! In true Pinoy fashion, we can’t help but show our love for the beauty of the Philippines – and Cebu is no exception.
Culture
The cultural scene in Cebu is as vibrant as the Sinulog Festival, complete with dancing, music, and elaborate costumes. As a melting pot of Filipino, Spanish, and even Chinese influences, Cebu offers a unique blend of traditions that’ll make you proud to be Pinoy. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the local culture, from the warm smiles of the Cebuanos to the catchy tunes of their folk songs – all without having to update your passport!
Attractions
When it comes to attractions, Cebu is like a kakanin platter – there’s something for everyone! History buffs can visit Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño, while adventure seekers can swim with the whale sharks in Oslob or go canyoneering in Kawasan Falls. And, of course, there’s the stunning white sand beaches of Bantayan and Malapascua that’ll make Boracay green with envy. With so much to see and do, you’ll be singing “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” in no time!
Food
Cebu’s culinary scene is like a love letter to your stomach, with dishes that’ll make you want to kiss your diet goodbye. From the succulent Cebu lechon that Anthony Bourdain himself called the “best pig ever” to the mouthwatering ngohiong and puso (hanging rice), you’ll find yourself in foodie heaven. And, if you’re feeling extra indulgent, treat yourself to some sweet and creamy Cebuano delicacies like masareal and otap. So, pack your bags (and your appetite) and get ready to discover the best of Cebu’s gastronomic delights!
Conclusion
There you have it, mga kababayan! We’ve taken you on a whirlwind tour of the top 6 Asian cities that Filipinos love to visit – Penang, Singapore, Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and our very own Cebu. These destinations offer a mix of history, culture, attractions, and mouthwatering food that’ll satisfy your wanderlust and your appetite. It’s like a perfect balikbayan box full of unforgettable experiences!
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to update your bucket list, pack your bags (don’t forget the pasalubong!), and embark on an adventure of a lifetime. Just remember to take lots of selfies and group photos, because you know what they say – “pics or it didn’t happen!” And, of course, don’t forget to share your amazing travel stories with your friends, family, and even your chismosa neighbor. Happy travels, mga kaibigan!
