While Thailand is experiencing a major tourist boom thanks to the ‘White Lotus Effect’, those wishing to avoid the crowds should consider visiting this equally stunning and exciting Southeast Asian gem
Favourable currency exchange rates, working holiday visas and television inspiration are all leading British travellers to plan big holidays outside the continent in 2025. According to new research from Reboot Online, one of the most searched-for flights of 2025 are flights to Thailand.
But with The White Lotus effect sending tourists to the country in droves and the current plan to slack the visa exemption period in half, you may want to explore alternative options. If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Southeast Asia in person but without the keening crowds, consider a trip slightly further east.
The Philippines is more than just a destination dupe for Thailand, it has its own rich culture, cuisine and landscape to entice travellers. The country comprises over 7,000 islands with stunning coastal scenery and highly-rated hikes, as well as cheaper food prices than Thailand, according to Travel Authentic Asia.
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The Philippines can be divided into three main sectors: Luzon, being the largest, northernmost island, which includes the capital of Manila; a group of islands called the Visayas, including the major islands like Panay, Samar, and Masbate; and Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines, found at the southern end of the archipelago.
The country attracts nature-lovers with its diverse terrain of beaches, forests and mountains. White Beach, located in Boracay Island, is a top-rated attraction in the country. The white sand beach stretches for about 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) and has become a beloved destination for kitesurfing, sailing out on a paraw and sunbathing.
Boracay itself is a small island in the Visayas region, a central part of the Philippines. The palm tree-lined White Beach put the island on the map but according to one TripAdvisor user: “Beaches are better in the Philippines than in Thailand, and it’s not just Boracay.”
Some other top-rated attractions in the country include El Nido Beach, Kayangan Lake, Puerto Princesa Underground River and Big Lagoon. Travelling between the Philippines’ islands can add up cost wise though, so it’s important to plan your trip well in advance.
Another popular tourist destination is the country’s capital of Manila. Known as the “Pearl of the Orient” the historic city is full of museums, parks, and restaurants to dive into the local culture.
The Philippines – Manila in particular – has become a hotspot for food-focused travellers. The capital is well known for its impressive cuisine and street food markets, like the Legazpi Sunday Market, Quiapo Market, and the country’s very own Chinatown, Binondo.
Another popular spot is the capital city of the Davao region. Davao City is packed with attractions to entice travellers including the mountain resort Eden Nature Park and a nature theme park Malagos Garden Resort.
Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines, is also in Davao City. The trail up the over 9,000-foot dormant is no feat for regular hikers. To summit the peak you will need to prepare in advance and travel with a guide as the climb will take at least three days.
If you are swapping out Thailand for a trip to the Philippines, do keep in mind there is a difference in travel time. Flights between the UK and the Filipino capital of Manila are longer than travel to Bangkok, with flights from London taking approximately 16 hours.