should i visit philippines or indonesia

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A Travel Comparison for Vacations, Honeymoons, and Tours Indonesia vs. Philippines

Should you visit indonesia or the philippines, which country is cheaper, the philippines or indonesia.

Should I visit Indonesia or the Philippines? This is a popular question for many travelers. By figuring out which country is more expensive, you'll understand where you'll get more bang for your buck. A week in the Philippines can cost you about $451 (per person), while a week in Indonesia may cost you around $410. These differences become even more noticable if you plan to spend a longer time in the country. 10 days , two weeks , or even one month of travel to the Philippines or Indonesia can really add to your travel budget.

Accommodation is often cheaper in the Philippines compared to Indonesia ($24 vs. $30). Budget travelers usually stay in less expensive hostels and guest houses, while nicer hotels often appeal to families and upscale travelers.

Compare hotel prices here: Indonesia Hotel Prices and Philippines Hotel Prices .

Or, compare hostel and guesthouse prices between the Philippines and Indonesia to find the cheapest accommodation here: Philippines hostels and Indonesia hostels .

When comparing food in Indonesia vs. the Philippines they are not just different in cuisine, but also in price. Meal and restaurant costs in Indonesia ($16) are often cheaper than the Philippines ($15).

• Indonesia Prices Philippines Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Indonesia $ 59 Philippines $ 64
• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Indonesia $ 30 Philippines $ 24
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Indonesia $ 61 Philippines $ 49
• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Indonesia $ 8.74 Philippines $ 21
• Food Meals for one day Indonesia $ 16 Philippines $ 15
• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Indonesia $ 9.52 Philippines $ 14
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Indonesia $ 4.79 Philippines $ 11
• Water Bottled water for one day Indonesia $ 1.16 Philippines $ 1.40

How much are flights to Indonesia and the Philippines?

The price of a plane ticket may help you decide which country you should visit.

Find a Hostel in Indonesia or the Philippines

Hostels, guest houses, and locally owned B&B's are often the cheapest form of accommodation.

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Indonesia or Philippines: Which Is The Better Destination?

Are you trying to decide between Indonesia and the Philippines for your next Southeast Asian vacay? This is not an easy decision to make, but you don’t have to flip a coin. Both destinations offer incredible coastlines across their countless number of islands, yet there are some key differences that distinguish the two.

Indonesia consists of over 17,000 islands , all dotted along the Ring of Fire region of the Pacific Ocean. There are hundreds of volcanoes (most of which are active) located across the chain of islands. This makes for incredible and exciting landscapes. The Philippines is another island nation but has a significantly lower number than Indonesia. It is made up of 7,640 islands in the western Pacific Ocean.

So what makes these two chains of islands different? And how can you choose which is the better Southeast Asia destination that is worth visiting?

From culture and cuisine to beaches and things to do, we have done the hard research on both these popular destinations. Whether you are budget travelers or planning a luxurious dream getaway, here is all you need to know when it comes to the question, Indonesia or the Philippines?

Table of Contents

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Culture

Indonesia offers a unique cultural experience. From the countless amount of Hindu temples dotted across Bali to the Maimun Palace in Sumatra, visitors can visually see the diverse cultural influences that make up the nation. This isn’t to say the Philippines doesn’t have a rich culture, but the influences from the Western world have diluted the traditional sense.

There are over 1300 ethnic groups and 700 regional languages in Indonesia. It will pay off to learn basic Bahasa Indonesian to help you get by when island hopping. Many locals in tourist destinations will be able to speak a whole range of languages including English, Dutch, Chinese, and Korean. Whereas, in the Philippines, English is a recognized national language alongside Tagalog, so you can travel around fairly easily.

Both the Philippines and Indonesia are generally extremely welcoming of tourists. Friendliness and warmth are common traits found across most Southeast Asian countries.

Winner: Indonesia

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Getting Around

Both Indonesia and the Philippines have plenty of international flight arrivals, so getting into the country isn’t the hard part. It’s the getting around that can prove challenging. In larger cities, like Manila or Jakarta, public transport systems are in place to keep up with the faster-paced life. However, hopping between islands in both Indonesia and the Philippines can be somewhat difficult and pretty tedious.

It’s a close call, but the Philippines has slightly better and more reliable flights, trains, and boat travel between islands. Once you get out to one of the smaller islands, you may find that road quality is poor so traveling overland can take longer than you think. Be prepared to change your plans last minute if the weather changes, which happens frequently and suddenly in the Philippines.

Indonesia is vaster with more islands to navigate. Getting out to the more remote destinations can be a tiring journey consisting of domestic flights, bumpy boat rides, and slow road travel. Public buses are not worth trying as you will most certainly go round the houses and add hours on to your travels.

In both countries, remember to be careful when getting taxis. Always negotiate a price to your destination before getting in the car otherwise they will inflate the cost dramatically.

Winner: Philippines

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Beaches

How do beaches in the Philippines compare with those world-famous beaches in Indonesia? Both are pretty amazing, so it’s not easy to choose which country takes the title of best beaches. From picture-perfect, white-sand bays framed by lush jungle canopies to super-clear waters over some of the world’s best coral reefs. Some of our favorite Filipino beaches include:

• White Beach (Boracay) –  Iconic, the white sands could easily be confused with the Caribbean. There are loads of cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby too.
• Nacpan Beach (Palawan) –  Just down the road from El Nido, a favorite surf spot, the tranquil four kilometers of soft sands backed by a line of coconut trees. This beach is one of the most beautiful in the country.
• Seven Commandos Beach (Palawan) – Set underneath a dramatic limestone cliff, this is another beautiful white beach that can only be accessed by boat, making it even more idyllic to any adventure seeker.
• Sandira Beach (Bantayan Island)  – Also known as Paradise Beach, this one is a popular Instagram favorite. It is remote and rarely busy. 
• Cloud Nine (Siargao)  – The Philippines’ top surfing spot on the small island of Siargao. Be warned, it can get crowded.

Indonesia also shares the picture-postcard dream beaches alongside the bold black volcanic beaches and unique pink beaches that make a statement, all with turquoise waters lapping the shores. Across the thousands of islands, you can find beautiful beach upon beautiful beach, all offering the dreamy views and vibes you want from a tropical island. Some of our favorite beaches in Indo are:

• Pink Beach (Flores) – Located in the Komodo National Park, the pink sands are one of seven on the planet. There are also world-famous dive sites and coral reefs to snorkel.
• Tanjung Aan Beach (Lombok) – Pristine white sand, crystal clear water, and flourishing palm trees. Depending on the swell, there is a small, fun wave here that is great for beginners to learn how to surf.
• Nyang Nyang Beach (Bali) – Escape the crowds of Bali and discover this remote picturesque stretch of sand. This seemingly never-ending beach is perfect for quiet sunbathing.
• Kling King Beach (Nusa Penida) – Made famous by Instagram, this spot is also known as Jurassic Park beach. The rock formation is breathtaking and will leave a lasting memory on you.
• Padar Island (Flores) – Another jaw-dropping location dotted in the middle of the Komodo National Park, prepare for a hike up the hill to get the best view of both bays.

Winner: Both

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Things To Do

Surfing on the Filipino and Indonesian reefs is simply magical. Both destinations have consistent swell and warm waters, making it one of the most popular activities to do when visiting these islands. But what else is there to do and which destination has more to offer?

Both the Philippines and Indonesia are home to some of the world’s best coral reefs, so it’s no surprise that both are considered diving paradises. Palawan’s  Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park  in the Philippines is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is filled with rich marine biodiversity. Indonesia’s rival is the Komodo National Park or the unbelievable dive sites around Raja Ampat close to West Papua.

If diving or surfing isn’t for you, why not get a different kind of adrenaline rush and try a canyoneering tour in the Kawasan Falls of Cebu, Philippines. Other fun tourist attractions include Bohol’s Chocolate Hills and the Underground River in Palawan.

On the other hand, Indonesia has countless amount of volcanoes for you to climb and conquer. Mt Batur in Bali is the most popular due to access, but other good volcanoes to climb are Mt Bromo (Java) and Mt Rinjani (Lombok). As well as impressive volcanoes are incredible waterfalls. The Indonesian landscape is truly magnificent. The Indonesian culture lends itself to providing unique things to do. From watching fire dance performances at Uluwatu Temple , tasting strong Java coffee at plantations, or exploring the traditional rice terraces over the islands, there is certainly no shortage of things to do.

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Wildlife

Southeast Asia has an exotic and diverse range of wildlife across the board. Some animals are dangerous , but most are just weird and wonderful. If you want to see unparalleled wildlife, you need to head to Indonesia.

Bali is home to Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and these monkies can be found across the whole island. Many tourists flock to the Komodo National Park to see the world’s largest lizard, the famous Komodo Dragon – many dive trips incorporate visits to see these animals in between dive spots. Some people head deep into the Sumatran jungle to catch a glimpse of the endangered and majestic orangutans.

And then you head to the waters and discover a whole new world in the coral reefs. From giant manta rays to curious sea turtles and tropical fish, the Indonesian wildlife is unbeatable. The Philippines also has an interesting ecosystem, but it really doesn’t come close to that of the remote areas of Indonesia.

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Nightlife

Although the Philippines night scene is famed in SE Asia, it is not as vibrant and lively as that found in Bali, the world’s number 1 travel destination . Bali is famous for its cheap party scene from Kuta to Canggu. You can find relaxing beach lounge vibes or nightclubs pumping into the night. It’s no secret as to why Australians choose Bali as their go-to party island!

Kuta and Seminyak are populated by nightclubs and cheap bars selling cold Bintang. Make sure you check out some of the beach clubs located along the stretch of sand between Kuta and Canggu. To mention a few:

• Potato Head
• Finns Beach Club

That being said, Filipinos do know how to have a good time. You’ll discover you are never too far from a karaoke bar and friendly locals up for a laugh. The most lively destination is Boracay island. Famous for its stunning beaches, this island also has a lot going on after the sun goes down. With quirky beach bars and all-night dance clubs, Boracay is the Philippines’ party capital.

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Food

Food is an important part of every trip. And a trip to Southeast Asia always offers a chance to be adventurous with the cuisine. Filipino cuisine is tasty but tends to be not as complex as dishes found in Indonesia. Meals in the Philippines tend to be simple with less distinctive flavors, which doesn’t mean that it is bad. Far from it. There are lots of great Filipino dishes to try, including:

• Crispy pata
• Fresh seafood and fish

But Indonesia does just do it that little bit better. The flavors and spices create mouthwatering cooking that will leave a lasting impression on you. Once you’ve tasted a nasi goreng there is no going back. Canggu in Bali has some world-class dining options, offering plenty of choices for vegans and healthy eating.

Street food is a popular thing in Indonesia and well worth a try. Be brave and give the sate stalls a try, it may be the best thing you’ve ever tasted. If you are in Padang (Sumatra), you have to sample the rendang . Trust us, this delicious local dish will blow your mind.

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Hotels

As Indonesia is the more popular destination for tourists, you can expect there to be more of a choice when it comes to accommodation across the islands. Tourism has been well established in Indonesia for several decades now, whereas, the Philippines is slowly being discovered by more travelers. There are a staggering 20,420 properties available on booking.com for Indonesia and only 5,701 in the Philippines.

However, there is a similar theme when it comes to both – your money goes a long way. Hotels and guesthouses are generally cheap and you find some super luxurious places for less than you would pay for a Travelodge in London!

In both the Philippines and Indonesia, you can expect daily housekeeping and even breakfast included in many stays with guesthouses and homestays. If you wish to stay longer, like a month, for example, you are able to negotiate a cheaper rate directly with the locals.

Indonesia vs. Philippines: Prices

SE Asia is known and loved for its mega cheap prices. But which out of Indonesia and the Philippines is the cheapest? There are always tips and tricks for people to travel on a budget , and both Indonesia and the Philippines offer budget options.

On average, a week in the Philippines can cost you around $403 USD (per person), whereas a week in Indonesia typically costs around $358 USD. 

Choosing Between The Philippines and Indonesia

So, which is the winner in your eyes? From prices to accommodation, things to do to wildlife to see, Indonesia comes out on top for us. The culture and charm of these islands steal the show every time and promise an unforgettable experience.

However, if you are longing for a quieter and less tourist established destination, the Philippines may just be where you need to head to. Get out of Manila and head to the quiet regions, like Siargao, and you are guaranteed beautiful beaches and chilled vibes. Just be cautious of the season as the Philippines does get battered with monsoons between May and November.

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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When planning their next vacation in Southeast Asia, tourists often compare the Philippines and Indonesia. People are quick to find that both countries offer unique experiences to tourists, whether it’s their vibrant dialects or flavorful cuisines. This leaves prospective tourists scratching their heads in confusion on which country to visit!

Indonesia is home to over 270 million and is the world’s largest island country. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Bali or strolling through the streets in Jakarta, Indonesia offers a variety of memorable experiences to any adventurous tourist.

Just north of Indonesia lies the Philippines, an archipelago with over 100 million people. From the pristine sands of Palawan to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills , more tourists are beginning to unravel the hidden beauty in the Philippines.

If you’re deciding on whether to visit Indonesia or the Philippines for your next trip, consider these points to help you choose your ideal destination.

7 Indonesia Is Home To Many Popular Tourist Destinations

In 2019, over 16 million tourists visited Indonesia, flocking to some of the country’s most popular destinations like Bali, Jakarta, and Sumatra. Due to the country’s geography, climate, and unique culture, Indonesia offers a little something for any traveler.

For instance, Bali alone has been recognized as the best destination in the world by TripAdvisor. This Indonesian island is jam-packed with tourist attractions for everyone, such as the Ubud Art Market, the Tanah Lot temple, Mount Batur, and Kuta Beach. Other popular tourist attractions outside of Bali include Komodo National Park, Borobudur Temple, and Lake Toba.

If you decide on traveling to Indonesia, it’ll be relatively easy to find recommendations online for ideal destinations and accommodations catered to your interests and budget.

RELATED: The Biggest Mistakes Tourists Make When Going to Bali

6 It’s Easy To Travel Around The Philippines If You Speak English

English is recognized as one of the Philippine’s official languages, alongside Tagalog. Due to the country’s education system (which is primarily taught in English) and its ties to Western culture, many locals can converse in English.

From hailing down taxi cabs to ordering food at a local restaurant, English-speaking tourists can get by in the Philippines without having to speak Tagalog (although it’s always appreciated when tourists try to do so).

5 Indonesia Offers A Unique Cultural Experience

With influences taken from both Western and Eastern cultures, the Philippines’ culture is still rich that many tourists can appreciate. However, whether it’s the many Hindu temples in Bali to the Maimun Palace in Sumatra, tourists can visibly witness the diverse cultural influences that make up the Indonesian culture.

With over 1,300 ethnic groups (and 700 regional languages), travelers seeking a cultural experience can be sure to find a memorable one in Indonesia, whose motto is literally “Unity in Diversity”.

4 The Philippines Is Your One-Stop Destination For Beautiful Beaches If You’re On A Time Crunch

While it’s impossible to fully experience the country in a couple of days, travelers looking for a short-term, relaxing beach destination can definitely find one in the Philippines.

Many tourists flock to El Nido, Borocay, and Panglao Islands to enjoy a nice beach vacation. For quieter destinations, consider visiting Siargao, Caramoan, Potipot Island, or Camiguin Island. Otherwise, you’re bound to find your ideal beach in any one of the country’s 7,640 islands!

If you’re staying in Manila (the country’s capital city), you can still enjoy a nice beach getaway near Manila.

RELATED: What It's Like to Explore Puerto Princesa, the Philippines' Underground River

3 Travel To Indonesia If You Want to See Unparalleled And Incredible Wildlife

Many travelers boast about Indonesia’s incredible array of wildlife. Reptile lovers can see Komodo dragons while paying a visit to the Komodo National Park, while curious tourists can travel to Sumatra to spot some orangutans. Even Indonesia’s popular island of Bali is home to Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary .

Being a large archipelago of over 17,000 islands, tourists can enjoy some snorkeling or scuba diving to get up close with the local aquatic wildlife, such as tropical fish, coral reefs, and even the majestic manta ray!

RELATED: First Ever Zero-Waste Restaurant in Indonesia Serves Delicious Line-Caught Fish

2 Philippines Offers Boisterous Tourists Vibrant Night Life

Although Bali has a vibrant nightlife (that often starts after midnight) complete with clubs and lounges, travelers who love the party scene should visit the Philippines. While Manila is home to a variety of bars and lounges, destinations such as Borocay, El Nido, and Siargao offer tourists beautiful beach views while enjoying a night out on the town.

Budget travelers looking to party will appreciate how far their money can go in the Philippines. You can often find great street food and drinks when strolling through the town, which will keep both your stomach full without doing damage to your budget.

1 Indonesian Cuisine Is Aromatic And Spicy, While Filipino Cuisine Is Savoury And Sweet

From Nasi Goreng to ‘ Death Noodles ’, Indonesian cuisine is an aromatic experience that draws influence from a variety of cultures , with an array of dishes that appeals to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Travelers with high spice tolerances will enjoy the many dishes Indonesia has to offer, especially with their use of sambal chili pastes.

On the other hand, Filipino cuisine is often savory and sweet, which is a result of influences taken from diverse Eastern and Western cultures. Tourists who love meat are bound to find a Filipino dish they enjoy, whether it’s the world-famous adobo or the mouth-watering whole roasted pig (known as Lechon). Meanwhile, travelers with a sweet tooth can enjoy delicacies like purple yam (ube) ice cream or the Filipino variation of crème caramel called Leche flan.

NEXT:  20 Things To Pack Before Backpacking Through Southeast Asia

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The Philippines vs. Indonesia: Travel Destinations Compared

Philippines and Indonesia Travel Destinations

Which tourist destination is better: the Philippines or Indonesia? Which has more beautiful natural scenery, a more varied landscape, and more friendly people? Which is the best value for money?

The Philippines and Indonesia are beautiful tropical countries, but which is best for you? When deciding which country to visit, there are many things to consider. You can find everything you need to know about Indonesia and the Philippines in this article.

Indonesians have a lot to be proud of. The country is known for its beautiful scenery, world-class surfing, and warm, friendly people.

The Philippines, which consists of a group of islands, is a country that is growing quickly. Both the Philippines’ list of sights and its people are amazing and friendly.

This post intends to help you learn! Compare the two countries on your own! Find out which one is better for your next trip. Throw away what you had previously known.

How Are Indonesia and the Philippines Alike and Different?

Owing to their beautiful beaches and lively cities, Indonesia and the Philippines are two of the most popular places for tourists. But as places to visit, the Philippines and Indonesia have not been given enough credit. Many people go to Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur, but the Philippines and Indonesia aren’t as famous. They are two of the best countries to visit in Southeast Asia.

Both countries have a lot of people living in them. Indonesia, with more than 280 million people, has the fourth largest population in the world. On the other hand, almost 110 million people are living in the Philippines.

They are both multi-island states as well. There are more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines. Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands, but more than half of its people live on the island of Java. Every country finds new land every other month or every year. But only a few places have a lot of people.

Many people go to Bali expecting a paradise with blue water, like the screen savers you might have on your computer. But most of Bali is made up of beaches with black sand and brown water. At Uluwatu, you can see beautiful, slightly bluer water. But if you go to Nusa Penida, you can find beaches that look like those in the Philippines. But not all beaches are like the Philippines. Beaches with blue water and white sand are in both countries. So, the Philippines probably has a slight edge over Indonesia, even though both countries have similar locations.

Places in the Philippines Where Travelers Have Fun

These are the best places to visit in the Philippines if you are a traveler seeking fun and adventure:

Palawan is famous because it has beaches with blue water and white sand. Friendly people surround beautiful white-sand beaches. Palawan is a lovely place to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The most popular places to go are El Nido and Coron Island , which has beautiful scenery.

Mindanao has a well-known island called Siargao . The atmosphere is kind of like a miniature version of Bali. People think of this island when they see coconut trees. The highways with coconut trees look like they were put there on purpose because they are so pretty and symmetrical. It is how most of its roads are set up. They are stunning.

Boracay is likely one of the most well-known tourist and vacation spots in the Philippines. It is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international tourists. Many people from Asia and other parts of the world visit the island every year.

Known for its clear waters, white sand, and stunning beaches, Boracay has a wide range of tourist activities and attractions that everyone can enjoy while in Boracay, such as snorkeling, diving, swimming, and windsurfing. Boracay is also home to various restaurants, bars, and a wide range of shops and boutiques.

Interesting Travel Destinations in Indonesia

The island of Bali is the most prominent place in Indonesia. Most of the time, people from all over the world stay there longer. It has a lot of comforts and still has a bit of adventure. You can visit the monkeys, the volcanoes, and the beautiful island near Nusa Penida with its blue beaches and natural beauty. It’s the closest anyone has ever been to the Philippines.

Volcanoes are another thing that sets Indonesia apart from other places. Java has many volcanoes that are still active. There are also volcanoes in the Philippines, but Indonesia is the most volcanic country in the world. Some tourists think of Indonesia when they see the sunrise view from Mount Bromo , which is out of this world.

Cultural Differences between Indonesia and the Philippines

Colonial history.

Spain ruled the Philippines for more than 300 years. Then came the Americans, who ruled the country for almost half a century.

On the other hand, the Dutch ruled Indonesia. So, traveling around Indonesia, you’ll see many signs of this being true. You will see parts of the Dutch government and some old Dutch homes.

Spain has had a significant impact on the Philippines. Because the Spanish were there for a long time, the whole area has a unique history. Small islands have old churches that resemble Spanish churches from 200 years ago. So you can feel the culture in the way a building is built.

In contrast, most Filipinos speak English quite well, especially in bigger cities. So, finding your way around and talking to the locals is easier.

The same can be true about the food. In the Philippines, fish on the grill is more common. It looks like Indonesian fried pork. You can choose between the noodle soups bakso and mi ayam . So, the food in Indonesia and the Philippines is very different.

Communication and Transportation Issues

Internet connection.

Most of the Indonesian island of Bali has a great Internet connection. If you can find a good spot in the Philippines, you’ll be able to upload and download anything you want quickly. But you need to pay close attention to where you are and which island you are on. Sometimes, you might not have any connection at all. Your phone might not even be able to connect to a phone line. It adds to the adventure once more.

Transportation

Because the countries comprise many islands, it will be hard to get around them. So, sometimes you must fly for an hour or two to get to a different island.

If you want to go to the Indonesian island of Java, you might need to take a boat. You can take a train across the whole island of Java, and then you can take a ferry to another island, like Bali.

Before getting on a boat in the Philippines, you usually have to fly from one central island region to another. Then you can ride a bus all around the island. There are many great places to go on a bigger island like Cebu. So, it’s a little harder to get around the Philippines.

If you want to go somewhere else, you won’t fly because you’d have to take three boats, five buses, or whatever the case. It might be fun, but that’s how things are, making travel more of an adventure.

How to Book Your Flight and Hotel Accommodation

To go to any tourist destination of your choice, use the forms below to search for the best deals and discounts for booking your flight and hotel accommodation :

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Recommendation

Both the Philippines and Indonesia are great places to go for travel and leisure. If you want to take a trip soon, the Philippines and Indonesia should be at the top of your list. in fact, you should include them in your list of top 50 travel destinations in the world.

You can’t go wrong with either choice. Both countries have beautiful landscapes, great beaches, friendly people, and unique cultures and histories.

But they have different things to offer, depending on what you want from a vacation spot. Ultimately, it all comes down to what you like, so choose the country that interests you the most and start packing.

It depends on what your goals are.

If you want to see a more traditional culture, you should visit Indonesia. The Philippines is a great place to go if you want a beach vacation with many different activities.

The Philippines is a great place to go if you want to visit a country with a lot of natural beauty. If you want to see a country with a lot of history and culture, Indonesia is a better choice. Both countries have good food and friendly people, depending on what kind of holiday atmosphere you want.

So, which one?

Both the Philippines and Indonesia are two of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia. But if you could only choose one, which would you choose? The Philippines wins as the better place to go on vacation.

People who want to pack as much fun and adventure into their vacation as possible should go to the Philippines. There are more beaches, resorts, and things to do in the Philippines than anywhere else. Overall, we think the Philippines is a better place to vacation than Indonesia.

Indonesia is a great place to go on vacation if you want to take it easy and relax. But it seems it’s more fun in the Philippines . If you want to do more on vacation, we think you should go to the Philippines instead. It is a great place to go if you want to pack as much adventure as possible into your vacation.

Why the Philippines?

Here are a few of them. First, Filipinos are known for being friendly and helpful, so you can be sure they will take care of you while you are there. Second, there is more to see and do in the Philippines. There are world-class beaches, diving sites, interesting heritage towns, and hiking trails. Lastly, the Philippines are usually less expensive than Indonesia, so your trip won’t cost much. It might as well be one of the cheapest places to travel to and enjoy your stay there.  So, there you have it: the Philippines is a great place to visit in Southeast Asia if you want to get away.

Europeans are always interested in discovering whether the Philippines or Indonesia is a better place to visit. If you have been to either or both, where do you see similarities, and where do you see differences? Which of these two Southeast Asian travel destinations would you recommend visiting – Indonesia or the Philippines?

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TravelAsker

Which country is better to visit, Philippines or Indonesia?

Travel Destinations

December 9, 2023

By Kristy Tolley

The Philippines and Indonesia are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Both countries boast of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm and friendly locals. However, deciding which country to visit can be a tough choice. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two countries based on several factors to help you make an informed decision.

Geographical location and climate

The Philippines is an archipelago situated in the western Pacific Ocean, consisting of over 7,000 islands. The country experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – the wet season from June to November and the dry season from December to May. Indonesia, on the other hand, is an archipelago located in Southeast Asia, comprising over 17,000 islands. The country has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – the wet season from October to April and the dry season from May to September.

Both countries are prone to natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. However, these occurrences are not frequent and should not deter you from visiting either country. When planning your trip, it is advisable to check the weather forecast and avoid visiting during peak typhoon or monsoon season.

Cultural diversity and attractions

The Philippines and Indonesia are home to diverse cultures and ethnicities, each with its own unique traditions and customs. The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, while Indonesia is predominantly Muslim. Both countries have a rich history and are known for their UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the rice terraces in the Philippines and the Borobudur Temple in Indonesia.

The Philippines is famous for its pristine beaches, such as Boracay and Palawan, while Indonesia is known for its ancient temples, such as Prambanan and Tanah Lot. Both countries offer a range of tourist attractions, including natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and adventure activities such as hiking and surfing.

Accommodation and transportation

Both the Philippines and Indonesia offer a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. In the Philippines, popular accommodation options include homestays, guesthouses, and beachside resorts. In Indonesia, you can find accommodations ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury villas.

Transportation in both countries can be challenging, especially in rural areas. In the Philippines, the most common mode of transportation is the jeepney, a colorful public utility vehicle. In Indonesia, the most popular mode of transportation is the scooter or motorbike. Both countries have well-developed transportation networks, including buses, taxis, and trains.

Safety and security

Safety and security are important considerations when traveling to any destination. Both the Philippines and Indonesia have had incidents of terrorism and crime in the past. However, these occurrences are rare and should not deter you from visiting either country. It is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid traveling alone at night or in secluded areas.

It is also important to be aware of scams and pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas. When traveling to remote areas, it is recommended to hire a guide or join a tour group for added safety.

Language and communication

In the Philippines, the official languages are Filipino and English, making it easy for tourists to communicate with locals. In Indonesia, the official language is Bahasa Indonesia, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Food and cuisine

Both the Philippines and Indonesia offer a range of delicious cuisine. In the Philippines, you can indulge in local delicacies such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon. In Indonesia, you can savor dishes such as nasi goreng, gado-gado, and rendang. Both countries also have a range of street food options, which are a must-try for adventurous foodies.

Tourist visa requirements

Tourist visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. The Philippines offers a free visa on arrival for certain nationalities, while others require a visa before arrival. Indonesia offers a visa-free entry for certain nationalities, while others require a visa before arrival. It is important to check the visa requirements before planning your trip.

Cost of travel and exchange rate

The cost of travel and exchange rate varies depending on the season and location. In general, the Philippines is considered a more affordable destination than Indonesia. The exchange rate in the Philippines is approximately 50 Philippine pesos to 1 US dollar, while in Indonesia, it is approximately 14,000 Indonesian rupiah to 1 US dollar.

Tourist activities and experiences

Both the Philippines and Indonesia offer a range of tourist activities and experiences. In the Philippines, you can swim with whale sharks in Donsol, go island hopping in El Nido, or visit the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. In Indonesia, you can hike up Mount Bromo, explore the Komodo National Park, or relax on the beaches of Bali.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit both countries is during the dry season, which is from December to May in the Philippines and from May to September in Indonesia. However, both countries can be visited year-round, depending on the activities and destinations you plan to visit.

In conclusion, both the Philippines and Indonesia offer unique experiences and attractions for tourists. Whether you prefer pristine beaches or ancient temples, both countries have something to offer. When deciding which country to visit, consider factors such as climate, cost, and cultural diversity, and plan your trip accordingly. Ultimately, both countries are worth visiting, and you are sure to have a memorable experience in either destination.

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Home » Asia » Vacation in the Philippines or Indonesia post-pandemic

Vacation in the Philippines or Indonesia post-pandemic

Making a choice where to go on your vacation between the Philippines and Indonesia can be hard. Why should you chose one over the other? Can’t you just visit both? What is so similar about them?

Well Let me help you choose a vacation destination between Philipinnes and Indonesia. Both are a good choice to visit, it also depends what you like.

The weather of both countries are very similar, tropical. Both countries have a wet season, but part of the Philippines is located in the typhoon belt. This means that there are yearly typhoons coming during the typhoon season. From June to September it’s the most active, do check your destination as not every part is affected.

Philipinnes versus Indonesia tourism

Philipinnes received in the year 2019 around 8.2 million visitors and Indonesia received about 20 million tourists. This is a huge difference. Both countries are fairly big, you won’t be able to discover everything in a few weeks of vacation let alone months! (Source: Wikipedia and http://www.tourism.gov.ph )

Popular touristic places

Let’s compare the tourist destinations and also the general things it is known for. I want to start off with the destinations in Philipinnes followed by the ones in Indonesia.

Popular tourist destinations in Philipinnes

Do check the video about Philippines as it gives a bit of insight what you are going to see. I am psyched to visit that for sure!

Palawan is a touristic place, a long shaped island and it will take a full days to ride to go from South to North. The most popular parts of Palawan are Puerto Princesa (PPS), El Nido and Coron. It’s a pretty place with a lot of things to do and see. Hiking, swimming, and seeing one of the natural world wonders, the underground river. Coron has the most beautiful beaches and the one of the clearest of waters for snorkeling or diving.

One of the places to visit with beautiful sights and rich in history. The beaches are natural white sand, very beautiful. One of the most Instagram-able moment, swimming with the whalesharks!

Adventure around the chocolate hills. Go with an ATV tour and climb the steps to see the majestic landscape. Besides on land, the beaches and diving for coral reefs will be a sight to see. The centuries-old churches are worth a visit as well

Tropical tourist island with a vibrant nightlife, exquisite beaches. (Young) People do love to come back here again. The experience of Boracay is not to be compared with the other islands.

A more secluded paradise is Siargao. Great for a romantic getaway to see more of the tropical Philippines how it was several decades ago. Untouched. Besides that it’s a surf paradise were yearly competitions are held.

Adventures, hiking, getting one with nature. A lot colder so be sure to find a campfire at an eveningstroll. Sagada is fun for those looking to hike outdoors or inside the mountains. A hike can easily last the whole afternoon and is an adventure you will never forget. With just a lamp, you will overcome obstacles several hours long. Best to do this with your friends and not during the rainy season!

Banaue and Ifugao

the rice terrace are legendary over there. With waterfalls and nature. Also great for hikes and just soaking up the nature. At Banaeu you would look over the pandemonium of rice teraces.

The capital with more than 20 Million people! This city has a lot to offer. A lot of gambling in their “City of dreams”, Resorts World or Solaire. This is what Indonesia doesn’t have what Manila has a lot: Casinos.

Besides that there are so many malls to visit. If you like to negotiate for a price, then Greenhills in Manila is your thing.

Popular tourist destinations in Indonesia

A lot of my content is about Indonesia

Bali (including the islands nearby)

Receiving over 5 Million tourists in 2019 alone, this is the popular place in Indonesia. Some would just avoid it because of the busy tourism. As I live here I can tell you, Bali is big enough and the tourism is mostly concentrated in a small place. The islands nearby, Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan are an adventure on its own. You can go hiking, diving or partying. Bali has it all (except cold weather).

Bali is also popular to get married or as a honeymoon destination. A romantic getaway, with amazing hotels, resorts to make your stay as comfortable as it can be.

Komodo island

Have you seen the dragons, also known as the Komodo’s? Well apparently here is where you can find them. With luxury resorts build on Komodo Island, you can get pampered, observe the magnificent creatures and enjoy the tropics at the same time.

Great for Diving trip as the water is pristine as it gets in Indonesia. Raja Ampat is more to the east of Indonesia and a great choice of destination if you can afford it. Due to it’s location it’s a little challenge to get there, but worth once you are there.

Just a ferry away from Bali, it’s great place for surfing if you don’t like it too crowded like in Bali. The food is a lot spicier here. There is a 4 days / 3 nights hike available for the adventurers at Mount Rinjani.

A city like no other in Indonesia, Yogyakarta offers a variety of food originated from different places. As of 2022 rapid development happened in Sleman, just a few kilometers north of Yogyakarta’s center. For everyone there is something they would like to see and explore. The tourism here often come for Borobudur and Prambanan temple. Do check what to do in Yogyakarta .

A beautiful less developed islands. Lots of places without a signal for your mobile, but stunning and amazing sights. Due to the shape of the island it’s also a journey to get from A to B on Flores. The prices are a bit steep compared to Bali, but you would be escaping the busy tourism as Flores is much more nature-like and calmer.

A very low key gem is Nias . Popular for surfing, but due to it’s a remote island, not many tourists come here. Great if you would want to have a more peaceful getaway as a surfer, or simply just get away.

Offering the most private exclusive and romantic getaway Sumba is a destination to go as couples. Calm on another island while having the luxury. Sumba doesn’t have as many hotels as the other islands, but it has a lot of nature, and is rich in local culture and history.

The city life brings very different vibes and views compared to Bali, Lombok, Flores etc. For those who would want to explore the urban scene of Indonesia, Jakarta has it all. From malls to theme park. It’s a busy life with lots of congested traffic.

Making a choice between Philippines and Indonesia

There are some differences, besides the obvious. Philippines tourism is still catching up, and can’t compete with the numbers of Bali alone. However this means more areas with less influence from tourism. This alone would make Philippines the adventure.

If you have been to the Philippines already, do checkout Indonesia. And If you have been to Indonesia, do checkout Philippines. That way you can decide which of these 2 destinations you like better. If you haven’t been to either, Bali could be a choice of destination for you to explore, as tourism is pretty developed here.

Hi I am Dwi. I am a blogger, travel agent and a mom of a lovely daughter and wife to a supportive husband. I customize and plan tours in Bali and islands nearby for a living and have been doing this for more than 14 years. Get in touch via contact [at] taletravels.com

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A travel & food blog

17 Things to Know Before Visiting the Philippines (Plus Local Tips)

Are you planning on taking a trip to the Philippines? Be fully prepared by reading this list of essential things you need to know before visiting the Philippines!

1. The local currency is peso

2. best months to visit, 3. english is widely spoken, 4. local sim cards, 5. how to stay connected online, 6. expect traffic in major cities, 7. how to get around, 8. shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are okay, 9. locals are welcoming and hospitable, 10. over 7000 islands to explore, 11. best beaches in asia, 12. snorkeling and diving sites, 13. hiking destinations, 14. filipinos love to eat, 15. tipping culture, 16. it’s safe to visit, 17. it’s a third-world country, what to read next:.

You can exchange your money in the airport or money changers outside to Philippine peso. This is the only currency accepted in stores.

Rough equivalent is $1 = P50.

An important thing you should know about the Philippines is that it has only 2 seasons: dry season (November to May) and rainy season (June to October) .

The dry season is the best time to visit this country. In particular,  December to February  are cool months with few rainfall so these are the best months to book your ticket. Take note that December is holiday season, so expect peak rates. April to May is summer time so expect good weather in general, but it also coincides with school break so it’s peak season as well.

During rainy season, the country experiences typhoons. Typhoons are a big deal because the Philippines sits on a typhoon belt, which means it gets about 20 typhoons per year. During bad typhoons, boat transfers, island hopping activities, etc, may be cancelled. It is also the off-peak season so travelers may choose this time to enjoy places with less crowd and cheaper rates.

In the recent years, the climate is continuously changing so the seasons may come earlier or later than usual.

Basic English is spoken in the Philippines especially in major tourist areas such as Palawan, Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, and so on. This is because the official languages in the country are both Filipino and English. As such, the English language is taught in school.

In some destinations we’d been to, we’d encountered local communities who do not speak Filipino or English, but this is pretty uncommon. Unless you’re going to legit off-beaten tracks (I don’t mean places that are less crowded, but those with no tourism structure yet), I doubt you’d have this problem too.

The best sim cards to use are Smart or Globe.

WIFI isn’t available in all public areas in the Philippines and even private connections are slow (usually 1-5MB). Free wifi is rarely available in public. Cafe and restaurants may offer free WIFI, but not always.

The best way to get connected to the internet is buying your own sim card. Globe offers 2GB WIFI for a week for only $2 (P100).

However, take note that, in certain areas in the country — particularly in rural locations or islands — mobile signal/data is either erratic or non-existent.

If you’re a freelancer or someone who always need to be online, this is something you need to consider. Research about the destination ahead of time to know about about WIFI or mobile data availability and choose accommodations that offer free WIFI.

If you’re arriving in Manila, expect traffic on main roads and highways. If you’re here on a short layover, it’s best to stay inside the airport or explore to near destinations such as Mall of Asia. Further than that and you might be stuck in traffic for hours!

Also Read : Things to Do and Places to See in Manila

Tricycles, jeepneys and buses are the common types of local transportation. Minimum fare per person is less than P10 ($0.50). Make sure to keep P20 and P50 bills for payment because a lot of drivers don’t keep change for huge bills.

Taxis are also widely available, but to be honest there’s a lot of dishonest taxi drivers who will set a fixed amount instead of using a meter or refuse to take you on routes that pass through high-traffic areas.

You may also want to download transportation apps: Angkas (for motorcycles rides) or Grab (car or taxi).

You don’t have to worry about covering your body with shawls or long dresses because shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are okay. Even for residents this type of clothing is normal!

In fact, during summer season it’s best if you plan your wardrobe with light and loose clothes so you can be more comfortable with the hot & humid weather.

However, take note that the country as a whole is still fairly conservative so make sure to dress appropriately in public. Wearing bikinis in beaches and island hopping activities are okay, but once you’re off the beach, it’s best to cover yourself with a beach dress or shirt. Overt PDAs are also controversial. Holding hands and pecks are okay — French kissing in public is a no-no.

The Filipinos pride themselves for being warm and hospitable to visitors, especially foreigners. Don’t be surprised if strangers start chatting with you. If you need help of any kind, they are also usually happy to help.

The Philippines is an archipelago composed of over 7000 islands. The most recent official count puts the number to 7164 islands. How does this affect you? Well, it means you have literally thousands of options to go to!

It also means you have to  take local flights to get to travel to different provinces or ferry to neighboring ones.

Flights in the Philippines are expensive if bought in regular price. Depending on the destination, a local ticket may cost P4000-7000 one way. Make sure to watch out for promos from budget airlines to get tickets priced P1000-1500 one way.

Also Read : How to Book Cheap Flights in the Philippines

The Philippines is rich in natural resources and it has some of the most beautiful beaches you can find in Asia. These can be found in Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu. Even off-beat provinces such as Sorsogon have great beaches!

Personally, my favorite beach destination is Balabac . This remote area in the southern part of Palawan offers gorgeous virgin islands with white find sand and alluring blue water.

The Philippines also has a lot of great snorkeling and diving sites. If you’re looking to get PADI certified, there’s a lot of options for you on where to get one.

If you’re staying near Manila, you can take a 2-hour drive to Batangas where you can find the Verde Island Passage, known for its marine biodiversity. Here you can find lots of beach & dive resorts.

Other great spots for snorkeling & diving include Moalboal and Malapascua (Cebu), Panglao Island (Bohol), Camiguin Island , and Apo Island (Negros Oriental) .

Do you prefer to trek and climb mountains instead of chilling in the beach? There’s a lot of hiking destinations in the Philippines too.

If you’re staying near Manila, you can take a short drive to trek Mount Pinatubo, which is an active volcano in Zambales, or commute overnight to Banaue to see the Batad rice terraces, which are handcrafted by indigenous people a long time ago.

If you’re strictly after mountain trails, one popular destination is Mount Pulag . There are other hundred options whether you’re staying in Manila or not.

It’s a common joke that instead of saying “Kamusta?” (How are you?), Filipinos greet with “Kumain ka na?” (Have you eaten yet)? Filipinos have a huge appetite and usually eat 4-5x a day.

You may find that Filipino food isn’t up to par with local cuisines in other Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, but it only means you need to make extra effort in researching where to eat. There are a lot of great local restaurants in every location if you know where to look.

Also Read : Must-Try Food in the Philippines

Tipping is not a common practice in the Philippines. Restaurants already include a service tax in bills, so tipping is optional. This also goes for services.

However, I always urge people to give tips to local guides who assist them during traveling. A lot of these people, even those working in major tourist attractions in Palawan, aren’t earning much and their income depends on the tourist season. As for myself, I usually give P200-500 depending on the tour I’ve taken.

The Philippines unfortunately suffered a stigma due to attacks which happened in the south over the last few years. While these reports are true, these happened in concentrated areas.

Generally speaking, the Philippines and even most of Mindanao is safe to visit .

In fact, one of my favorite destinations in the country is Zamboanga City in Mindanao! I first went there during the annual Hermosa Festival and I had a great time.

The Philippines is a beautiful country but it’s a third-world country, so adjust your expectations accordingly. There’s still a lot of things to improve in terms of transportation, structures, services, and so on. My advise is to take it as part of your adventure.

Planning a trip to the Philippines? Check out these guides!

• First-Timers Guide to the Philippines
• Best Places to Visit in the Philippines
• Things You Need to Know Before Visiting the Philippines
• Is the Philippines Safe to Visit?
• Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations in the Philippines
• Suggested 2 Weeks Itinerary in the Philippines
• Suggested 3 Weeks Itinerary in the Philippines
• Philippines Packing List
• Must-Try Food in the Philippines
• 21+ Top Adventures in the Philippines

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

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The Philippines vs. Indonesia | Cultural Differences

Written by Drew Binsky

The Philippines and Indonesia are two of my favorite countries in the world and I’ve spent a combined 9 months in the Philippines and Indonesia over the last half-decade. They are both amazing countries that I adore so much, and I will always be coming back in the future.

While the Philippines and Indonesia have plenty of similarities, I wanted to focus on showing you the differences because it seems that a lot of people get them mixed together.

Of course both the Philippines and Indonesia has stunning beaches, delicious foods and smiling faces — but when you look deeper at their culture, they are actually opposites!

Which country do you enjoy more? The Philippines or Indonesia? Did I leave out any key differences?

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Bali Or Philippines: The Honest Comparison [2023] You Need!

S outheast Asia is one of those regions of the world everyone wants to visit at some point in their lifetime.

The vibrant cultures, incredible food, breathtaking landscape and exotic wildlife sum up the lure of this part of the globe – and the Philippines and Bali have it all. However other than their stunning beaches, these destinations are vastly different.

For example, the tourist hotspot of Bali gives you access to upmarket hotels as well as easy access beaches, rainforests and waterfalls all in the same day. It’s the whole package when it comes to a no hassle vacation. 

Expect far fewer tourists and much cheaper prices in the Philippines, but this country of over 7000 islands requires an adventurous tourist to really enjoy it. But the reward is a landscape and beaches that are arguably more beautiful than what you’ll find in Bali.

However that’s just the beginning when it comes to comparing Bali and the Philippines.

Luckily, after spending time in both, we compare Bali vs Philippines below. We show you what to expect in each, how the beaches, food, and towns compare, as well as show you some of the best places to check out.

So let’s dive in!

• A Quick Overview & Comparison

How Do The Beaches & Landscape Compare?

How does the culture & vibe compare.

• Which Is Better For Nightlife?

Which Is Better For Honeymoons & Couples?

Which is better for a family vacation, where to stay according to your budget, which is safer, which is cheaper.

• How Does The Cuisine Compare?
• Which Is The Better Choice?

A Quick Overview & Comparison: Bali vs Philippines

Both Bali and the Philippines are great vacation options, but they certainly provide different holidays.

Despite being just one island Bali packs a hell of a punch with stunning beaches, ancient temples, jungles for trekking, as well as a variety of accommodation options – including high-end resorts.

Plus, as a popular vacation destination, Bali is also well set up to cater for tourists, so may be the better choice if you’re looking for a hassle free holiday with lots of excursion options close by.

The Philippines, on the other hand, is a nation made up of 7000 islands! There are countless spectacular beaches in this country – some that feel more deserted, isolated, and peaceful than Bali – but they require an adventurous traveler to discover them.

The public transport in the Philippines – especially the bus system – is cheap and reliable, which does make it quite easy to travel cheaply around the country. In comparison, the public transport system in Bali is far worse.

Therefore the Philippines is a destination that is better suited to travelers who like to get away from the tourist hot-spots and discover their own hidden gems. It’s also a great destination for a holiday that’s longer than two weeks due to its size. More touristy Bali is probably better suited to anyone looking for shorter vacation.

There’s no doubt the Philippines is a cheaper holiday choice than Bali too, in terms of accommodation, food, and public transport.

Bali can be done on a budget, but as Bali has become a popular destination in recent years prices have gone up in tandem, and many upmarket and high end resorts have been built.

Below we look at the excursion options in both destinations, before comparing the culture and food in each. Stick around, because they’re quite different!

Bali: The Beaches & Landscape

Bali’s stunning coral reefs and sandy beaches give way to a forested volcano-sculpted inland – the perfect place to discover exotic wildlife, and go jungle trekking.

West Bali National Park is just a three-hour drive from the airport, but is virtually unexplored rain-forest. Whilst Bali’s northern-central rain forests have some spectacular waterfalls – Git Git and Sekumpul are two of our favorites.

Recommended: Wildlife & Nature Day Trips In Bali

If you want to stick with sand but avoid the crowds, Nusa Dua is a little-known beach that has miles of golden coastline, and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and kayaking. In fact head to Bali’s north coast for great diving, but the south coast for superb surfing.

On the topic of surfing, we think avid surfers and watersport enthusiasts will likely prefer Bali over the Philippines. Not just because of the conditions, but also because there’s an active watersports community on the island.

One of our favorite snorkeling and diving spots is Tulamben – home to the USAT Liberty which was torpedoed and sunk just off the coast here. While the bottom of the shipwreck is 30m down, the top is just 5m off the surface, so is accessible to divers and snorkelers alike.

As an important diving site no fishing takes place here, so the wreck and surrounding reef is teeming with colorful fish! A great underwater camera – such as this one – is a must.

Away from the coastline there’s more fun to have with water – Bali is full of spectacular waterfalls!

One of our favorites, Sekumpul Waterfalls , is in the mountainous north. Known as being the most beautiful waterfall on the island, take the Wanagiri Hidden Hills road to this lush rainforest swimming spot that has lots of little hiking trails around it.

In fact Bali’s natural habitats really allow you to holiday in style, with upmarket hotels deep in the jungle and on the coastline, yoga retreats in the mountains, as well as the usual beachside break accommodations.

So if you’re looking to holiday in style and you have some money to spend, then Bali will likely be a better choice than the Philippines.

The good thing with Bali – and one of its main advantages – is you can really see a lot of the island on your holiday. Be that catching surf, sunbathing, hiking with monkeys or wild swimming in waterfalls.

Philippines: The Beaches & Landscape

But when it comes to raw natural beauty, the Philippines really shines.

The geography of this country means it is difficult to get around – and traveling takes time – but the reward is worth it. Expect countless world-class beaches, and numerous paradise islands that feel like they exist in their own little world.

Many can be reached with the reliable bus and ferry transport system in place – you can see routes and find tickets here.

One of our favorite islands is Boracay which has everything a beach lover needs. This safe destination is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines, but you can still expect a secluded feel.

The white sand beaches there are gorgeous and arguably better than the beaches in Bali. The aptly-named White Beach is one worth visiting where the water is also nice and warm for swimming. The gently-swaying palm trees that line the coastline make this a true paradise island.

If you want somewhere even more remote, then head to Calaguas Island . The coastline is beautiful, unspoiled, barely developed, and you’re likely to be the only tourist around.

Of course with 7600 islands to choose from, it’s not hard to find a secluded beach in this nation! Many of those islands are also home to a teeming underwater world which is perfect for snorkeling.

One of those is the Visayas archipelago, which has some of the most varied sea-life in the region. There’s the possibility to swim with sea turtles at Apo Island , spot whale sharks at Oslob , or even swim alongside massive schools of sardines at Moalboal .

However the Philippines is far more than just coastline and beaches. This country has a lush mountainous interior with excellent opportunities for jungle trekking and wildlife spotting.

While in the Visayas you must visit the Chocolate Hills (photo below) where over 1200 symmetrical mounds are packed together. It looks otherworldly.

A trip to El Nido is well worth it too, as it will give you the opportunity to trek the giant limestone slabs that jut out of the ocean and into the sky. The hike isn’t easy, but you will be rewarded with panoramic views across the South China Sea.

Bali and the Philippines are culture-packed destinations where you’re guaranteed to experience the incredible east.

As the less touristy of the two, the Philippines tends to provide a more authentic experience than Bali. Although rural areas of Bali also offer a look at this island before tourism took over.

Below we look at the cultural highlights in each destination so you can see which one will suit your vacation preferences the most!

Bali: The Culture

The majority Hindu island of Bali has a plethora of stunning temples. From exotic beachside sanctuaries, to houses of worship hidden deep in the jungle interior.

Go temple hopping around the island for a cultural experience, and a way to see Bali in its full glory. Tirta Empul Temple – with its holy water that you can bathe in which is said to clean you of your sins – is an unforgettable experience.

In fact with a population of over four million people, and huge diversity across the island, Bali is a culture-seekers paradise. We recommend watching a Balinese Gamelan show – the traditional music of the Balinese.

Rice has been cultivated on Bali for generations, and the gorgeous rice paddies that rise up into the clouds across the island are as iconic as they are important.

Head to Tegalalang to see some of the most beautiful tropical rice terraces on the planet. Speak to the friendly locals in the villages about their life and work when there.

Philippines : The Culture

The Philippines is a country where tradition and culture holds significant sway, and outside of the main urban areas life remains remarkably similar to what it was like decades ago.

To get a jaw-dropping window into rural life in the Philippines, you must visit the rice terraces carved into the stunning Banaue mountains.

Sometimes called the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, it’s no surprise the centuries-old rice terraces at Banaue are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

They are still farmed to this day, and the little villages that dot the mountains will take you back in time. Stop and speak to the farmers and learn their story – maybe help out for the day – you will never forget it.

This is a religious country and beautiful churches and awe-inspiring temples dot the landscape. One of our favorites is Cebu Taoist Temple . Unlike other nearby temples this site is open to non-worshipers. It’s even possible to have your fortune read by monks that live there.

If you happen to be in the Philippines in January, then you will be lucky enough to experience the country’s biggest festival – Ati – Atihan .

This colorful celebration takes place on the island of Panay and is believed to be over 800 years old. Called the ‘mother of all festivals’, expect street food and lots of dancing during parades.

Both destinations offer plenty for culture seekers, but with the Philippines less visited, you can get a real taste of local culture here without too many tourist gimmicks, which is sometimes the case in Bali.

Which Has Better Nightlife?

Bali: the nightlife scene.

With international tourists flocking every month of the year to Bali, it’s no wonder that this island is known for having great evening scene.

The nightlife in Bali has a chill vibe, and people party in the open. In fact almost all of the famous clubs on the island are outdoor beach clubs instead of your usual dark & dingy nightclubs.

At these clubs you can have a few drinks while watching the sunset, and then dance the night away to the live music they often have.

The district of Canggu in particular is known as a party hotspot due to its many large beach bars and clubs. One of the hottest ones is Café del Mar , a large beachfront restaurant that turns into a mega club at night with blinding neon lights.

Other well-known beach clubs in the area are Finn’s Beach Club, Old Man’s, Vue Beach Club, and Deus Ex Machina . Deus Ex Machina is particularly suited for bikers because it’s located right next to the motorbike shop.

For something a bit different, fans of classic rock will recognize the name of a bar on Babadan Street, Gimme Shelter – named after The Rolling Stones’ hit.

It’s a rock and roll bar playing rock music every night from the evening late into the early morning, with free entry! They also hold open mics every Monday where visitors can channel their inner rockstar.

Philippines: The Nightlife Scene

The Philippines’ party capital is the country’s capital itself, Manila.

XYLO at The Palace has been named the best club in the Philippines and is well worth checking out. But for a more chilled out scene, try Oto , a bar that features live music performances.

Two hours away from Manila, the city of Makati is also known to have great bars and clubs. 

If you’re looking for great nightlife in the resort islands, then the island of Boracay has an interesting night scene. With plenty of beach bars and nightclubs, people on this island party all night long. You’ll also find full moon parties being held every month.

El Nido on Palawan island is also known for its nightlife, particularly its seaside hippie bars. Go chill there while listening to live reggae at Coco Bar , or dance all night at Pukka Bar .

It’s hard to compare Bali and the Philippines’ nightlife since both offer lively nightclubs and beach parties. But in our opinion we have to give this one to Bali. It’s known as one of Southeast Asia’s best party spots for a reason, probably second only to Thailand.

Bali: For Honeymoons

When comparing Bali and the Philippines, the one thing that’s obviously better about Bali is the fact everything is closer together.

So if you want a hassle-free honeymoon where everything is within reach, Bali would be the better choice.

That said, as mentioned above, the beaches are better in the Philippines than in Bali. In fact many of the beaches in Bali are a tad dirty, and only a few of them have white sand.

If you want a Bali beach honeymoon, then we recommended spending your hard-earned vacation on the nearby small islands of Nusa Penida or Nusa Dua .

You can reach these small islands by boat in just 15 – 30 minutes, and the views there are breathtaking, with long stretches of white sand and cliffs looming over the sea.

At Nusa Penida, you can also trek up to Kelingking Viewpoint and bask in the glory of nature. Another romantic spot is the Peguyanan Waterfall , which is a stream of water sprouting from sea cliffs with a temple at the foot of the cliff.

And for a new – yet very romantic experience – try staying at Rumah Pohon . It’s a unique hotel with a tree house concept that gives panoramic views of the island. 

Philippines: For Honeymoons

Needless to say, the most recommended honeymoon spots in the Philippines are the resort islands, including Boracay, Cebu, and El Nido.

As we mentioned above, Boracay has picturesque white sand beaches which are just perfect for a honeymoon.

The island also offers countless activities you can do with your partner including parasailing, ziplining, and getting a traditional couple’s massage.

For a beach honeymoon with a mix of culture, book a resort in Cebu. It’s especially known for its clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling, as well as its temples and religious sites.

Moreover, Cebu is home to many stunning waterfalls. We guarantee that taking a dip together under the cascades there will create a romantic memory you will never forget.

Southwest of Boracay, the municipality of El Nido is also a dream honeymoon destination. It’s most famous known for its lagoons, limestone cliffs, and white sand beaches. Many couples who visit El Nido also go island hopping so as to experience all the place has to offer.

The three islands we just mentioned are also some of the best places in the country for partying. Which is a plus for newlyweds looking to have a wild night together.

At the end of the day, choosing a honeymoon destination is wholly dependent on your preferences. Both Bali and the Philippines have many things to offer in terms of gorgeous sights and honeymoon resorts.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for convenience then Bali may be best. But if you’re looking for a more relaxing honeymoon with stunning beaches, then the Philippines might be better for you.

Bali: For Families

Even though it has awesome nightlife, that doesn’t mean Bali isn’t a great vacation spot for families.

There are plenty of fun places for kids, one the most popular being the Parklife Family Club in Canggu. There you will find various activities including bouncing areas, climbing structures, and cultural performances.

Bali is also popular for water sports, and there are many options for kids and adults alike. The most popular for families is probably the banana boats that you can find in Kuta and other beaches.

There’s also the Bali Wake Park, a floating inflatable obstacle course with water sport options like wakeboarding.

And if you want to teach your kids some culture, try making traditional Balinese offerings and playing gamelan music at Pondok Pekak Library. Or you can just watch a Devdan Show at Balu Nusa Dua Theatre where you can see traditional Balinese dances.

Many resorts in Bali also have kids’ clubs that offer cultural activities. Bali Dynasty Resort’s Kiddies Club includes Balinese costume dress-up, Balinese instruments class, and playing the traditional game of congklak.

But one of the most iconic places in Bali that kids will love is Ubud Monkey Forest. There you can meet Balinese long-tailed monkeys up close!

Another place to see animals is the Bali Bird and Reptile Park where you can also see the Komodo Dragon that’s native to Indonesia.

Philippines: For Families

Families with children can enjoy a large selection of theme parks and water parks in the country.

The best theme parks are The Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa and the Star City in Pasay City. And for water parks, try out The Splash Island Water Park in Laguna or Amana Waterpark in Pandi.

For animal-loving kids, the Philippines is home to quite a few zoos and aquariums too.

There’s the Manila Ocean Park which is not only an aquarium, but it also has Hotel H2O where you can stay in marine-themed rooms!

While in Subic Bay there’s the Zoobic Safari which is a tiger safari. Another option is the Avilon Zoo in Rodriguez, which is home to no less than 3,000 specimens.

You can also take your children to visit wildlife sanctuaries, like learning about Philippine eagles at The Philippine Eagle Center in Davao, or meeting tiny tarsiers at Tarsier Conservation Area .

There’s also a vast nature preserve in Rizal called Masungi Georeserve which is practically a jungle that centers on the geological formations of Masungi Rock.

Overall, both Bali and the Philippines are great destinations for families and both have plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

There’s more to offer in the Philippines – but the activities are more spread out – whereas in Bali things are easier to reach. Bali also has some fantastic kid-friendly resorts too.

Budget:  With beautiful beachside bungalows and a pool with an unbeatable Indian Ocean view,  Nirwana Beach & Resort  feels far more luxurious than the price tag. Set in pristine Eastern Bali, you’ll be taking photos everywhere you turn if staying here.  See photos and rates here!

Luxury:  It would be easy to recommend another beachside resort in Bali, but instead we had to suggest what must be one of the most magical hotels in the world. At  Munduk Heaven Luxury Villas  you’ll be walking across bridges above the treetops to get to their stunning restaurant, bar and outside pool.

But don’t expect to have your feet on the ground when returning to your room – you’ll be staying in their luxury ‘floating villas’ complete with jacuzzi and jungle views from above! It’s a place that really has to be seen to be believed.  See photos and rates here!

Philippines

Budget: Kookoo’s Nest Eco-Lodge is a super unique ‘tree house-like’ accommodation that is set right on the beach front. It’s got the ‘wow’ factor and you’ll have sea views as soon as you wake up. Yet despite all of that, it’s still extremely affordable. See photos and rates!

Luxury: With its private beach, outdoor swimming pool, and breathtaking sea views, it’s little surprise Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa is regarded as one of the best hotels in the country. The service is world class too. See photos and rates!

For the Philippines, the US government issues a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) advisory for the Sulu Archipelago and a Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) advisory for Mindanao due to kidnappings and crime. Other places in the country are safe to travel in.

On the other hand, there’s no travel advisory for Bali and it is regarded as a very safe place, especially for tourists.

Rarely will you ever come across crimes against tourists in Bali and the overall crime rate is low. At most, you have to be careful of scams and markups – we have written about that in the past.

Therefore, when compared head to head, Bali is certainly safer than the Philippines.

There is one thing that all tourists say when returning from Bali: everything is very cheap!

Of course, there are many pricey options too, such as luxury resorts and fine dining restaurants. However, finding affordable lodgings and eateries is very easy. in Bali

Look out for local hole-in-the-wall ‘ warungs’ for the cheapest meals when in Bali too.

For transportation, sadly there’s no tram or bus in Bali. At most, the only existing public transport is taxis and shuttle buses (which nobody ever takes).

But since everything is close together in Bali, it’s common practice to rent a motorbike. This way you can explore any part of the island on your own – and the rental price is only about $5 – $15 a day!

But please be mindful of road safety. Many foreigners riding motorbikes for the first time in Bali think there are no traffic codes and drive recklessly, and this has become a big problem on the island.

For accommodation and eating out, the prices in the Philippines are pretty similar. And for both the range of options is very wide, from the fanciest to humble local-owned. Local eateries called carinderias offer delicious cheap eats. 

Getting around the country can be quite expensive though since everything is so spread out. If you stick to exploring one area only, this can significantly cut transportation costs.

Resort islands such as Boracay and Cebu are pricier than other parts of the country, but they’re still cheaper than Bali. Therefore, the Philippines in general is cheaper than Bali.

A Taste Of The East: How Does The Cuisine Compare?

Both destinations will provide a treat for your tastebuds. Food from Bali may surprise, whilst Filipino cuisine is a rising star.

Bali: The Food

In Bali the food is pork and chicken dominated, and often very spicy!

For a very traditional taste of Bali order lawar , a dish that is made up of coconut, garlic, chili, and either chicken or pork meat and blood.

Another traditional meaty dish is Bebek betutu , which is duck cooked with coconut inside banana leaves.

If you want to try something vegetarian, then hunt down Urab – a delicious and refreshing traditional Balinese salad that is accompanied with coconut.

Philippines: The Food

Filipino food is often forgotten about when it comes to Asian cuisine, with Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese all stars on the global food stage.

However this country packs a punch when it comes to delicious dishes and may be the perfect destinations for foodies, especially as the cuisine can be quite different from region to region.

Adobo is regarded as one of the national dishes, and is a meat or seafood-based meal that is marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and other herbs.

The Philippines, like its neighbors, also has many different noodle dishes.

One of our favorites is Bulalo . This noodle soup is the perfect comfort food, and is made up of slow-cooked beef, onions, and vegetables.

As for something sweet, why not try Buko pie . A buko is a young coconut, and the flesh is used to make a desert that is the Philippines answer to a custard pie. The water of this green coconut is also a popular drink throughout the country.

Bali vs Philippines: Which Is The Better Choice?

If you’re looking for a holiday with upmarket hotels and easy access to beaches in the morning but rainforests and waterfalls in the afternoon, then Bali will be a great choice. This gorgeous culture-packed island is popular for a reason, but tourist hot-spots get quite busy.

Expect far fewer tourists and much cheaper prices in the Philippines, but this country of over 7000 islands requires an adventurous tourist to really enjoy it. The beaches and landscape are spectacular, but require travel off the beaten track. However the public transport is cheap, reliable, and easy to use.

Recommended For Your Trip To Bali Or The Philippines

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The 10 best places to visit in Indonesia

Dec 10, 2023 • 7 min read

Indonesia is how you've always imagined Asia – jungles, rice terraces, beaches, coral reefs and volcanoes Martin Puddy / Getty Images

Few destinations can beat Indonesia  in terms of variety.

One day, you're strolling beneath the glistening skyscrapers of a modern city; the next, you're in a traditional hilltop village scoffing down steaming gado-gado (tofu, tempeh, vegetables slathered in a creamy peanut sauce).

From climbing the freezing-cold summit of a puffing volcano to beating through tropical rainforests in search of orangutans or tigers, Indonesia offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure. Where else can you salute the sun at sunrise and then surf a world-class barrel back to a virgin beach at sunset?

Roughly half of all international tourists land in Bali , but the nation is so much more than this one enticing island. From Java , Sumatra and Sulawesi to the frontier islands of West Papua (shared with Papua New Guinea) and Borneo (shared with Malaysia and Brunei), here are the top places to visit on a trip to Indonesia.

1. Jakarta, Java

Best city for art and history .

There’s no better place to get to grips with this vast and complex nation of 273 million people than its capital, Jakarta . Home to more than 10 million residents, it’s chaotic, traffic-clogged and sprawls over nearly 700 sq km (270 sq miles). It’s also home to the nation’s finest restaurants, wildest nightclubs and best museums.

Take time to browse the collections in the Museum Nasional (for history), Galeri Nasional (for classical art) and MACAN (for modern and contemporary art). From the Dutch colonial buildings of the Kota Tua neighborhood to the modern skyrises of the Golden Triangle, the city is both a study in contrasts and a crossroads of cultures, classes and cuisines.

2. Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan, Borneo

Best place to see orangutans.

If you want to see orangutans, the island of Borneo is the last place on earth (other than a few spots in neighboring Sumatra) where these great apes still thrive. Travelers looking for surefire sightings of orangutans head to Tanjung Puting National Park , a coastal tropical swamp forest that looks today like much of southern Borneo looked a few decades ago.

Most visitors hire liveaboard boats to travel up the Sekonyer River to feeding stations in the rainforest and Camp Leakey, the iconic rehabilitation center deep in the jungle where these auburn-haired 'men of the forest' live out a serene, semi-wild existence.

3. Raja Ampat, West Papua

Best place for snorkeling and diving.

Raja Ampat was once an under-the-radar destination visited only by intrepid scuba divers, but the whispers about this enticing island group have now reached a fever pitch. Off the coast of West Papua, the archipelago is a picture-perfect vision of paradise. Its lumpy green isles are blanketed in rainforests, dotted with languid lagoons and surrounded by warm turquoise seas at the vibrant heart of the Coral Triangle – an area of ocean with some of the greatest marine biodiversity on earth.

Raja Ampat's prismatic birds-of-paradise, which dance through the trees each morning at sunrise, informed the theory of evolution through natural selection, first developed by Charles Darwin’s less-appreciated contemporary, Alfred Russel Wallace. The British naturalist's restored hut is a popular attraction on the island of Gam. In addition to the dive lodges on Waigeo and Misool, many visitors sleep in homestays on virgin beaches, offering a chance to learn more about West Papua's distinctive culture.

4. Ubud, Bali

Best city for wellness and culture.

Rice paddies tumble down palm-lined hills, gamelan music fills the air, and floral offerings fill the streets in Bali’s most alluring (and on-trend) city, Ubud . By day, you can take a motorcycle out to the Monkey Forest for simian encounters, pop into the Yoga Barn for an ashtanga session, ogle the art at the Agung Rai Museum or shop for word-class beauty products, woodcarvings and batik textiles downtown. After dark, many people attend evening performances at local temples, where visitors are hypnotized by the beauty of courtly Legong ballets or wild Kecak fire dancing. Be careful! Many foreigners come to Ubud for a few days and end up staying a few years.

5. Komodo National Park, Nusa Tenggara

Best place for surprising wildlife encounters.

Dragons really do roam the earth at this sprawling national park , covering the three arid islands – Komodo, Padar and Rinca – that provide shelter for the world’s largest lizards. Komodo dragons are ancient-looking creatures that can grow up to 3m in length and weigh up to 70kg. Sadly, there are fewer than 1400 of these fork-tongued giants left in the wild. The chance to see them lures thousands of visitors each year, many of whom arrive on a boat tour en route from Lombok to Flores , stopping along the way to snorkel or dive off the coast of Sumbawa .

6. Borobudur and Yogyakarta, Java

Best place for indonesian history.

Peru has Machu Picchu, Cambodia has Angkor Wat, and Indonesia has Borobudur , a nine-tiered temple from the 9th century that clocks in as the largest Buddhist structure in the world. Emblazoned across its walls are some 2672 intricately-carved bas relief panels featuring Buddhist legends and scenes of daily life in Java, as well as 72 distinctive, perforated stupas and more than 500 Buddha statues.

This colossal World Heritage Site lies amid sprawling rice paddies near Yogyakarta , an important education center and a hub for classical Javanese art forms, including batik-making, wayang puppetry and silversmithing. Yogya, as the city is known locally, is fiercely independent and still headed by a resident sultan, whose walled palace complex is the city’s top attraction.

7. Tana Toraja, Sulawesi

Best place for cultural traditions.

The jungle-clad hills and rugged granite cliffs of Tana Toraja would be enough of a lure for most places, but the big draw of the central highlands of Sulawesi is the Torajan people themselves. The inhabitants of this fascinating region maintain traditions that mark them apart from other Indonesians, living in villages of elaborately decorated houses with intricately carved walls and boat-shaped roofs.

Many rituals here revolve around death and the afterlife. The bodies of the deceased remain in the homes (and lives) of their relatives for months or even years after they pass – for Torajans, death is viewed as a gradual and social process, and locals are generally comfortable sharing these unusual traditions with visitors.

8. Kerinci Valley, Sumatra

Best place for hiking.

Southeast Asia’s tallest volcano, Gunung Kerinci – a 3805m (12,484ft) monster – lords over this remote highland valley on Sumatra , which has become one of Indonesia’s top spots for adventure travel. You can climb to the summit of this active volcano, swim beneath cascading waterfalls or search dense jungles for gibbons and langur monkeys.

Much of the land here is protected as Kerinci Seblat National Park, which is two times the size of Bali and protects more forest than all of Costa Rica’s national parks combined. At 13,791 sq km (5325 sq miles), Kerinci Seblat is the last large refuge for the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, which survives here in greater numbers than anywhere else on the planet.

9. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Java

Best place for beautiful indonesian views.

You don’t have to look far in Indonesia to find a volcano, but Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java contains a whopping five volcanoes right next to each other. These conical peaks are dotted around a lunar landscape that has sprung from the ancient Tengger caldera.

The most striking site is smoldering Gunung Bromo, which rises 2329m (7641ft) out of a crater that is almost 10km (6 miles) across, surrounded by the nation’s only erg (dune sea). Most visitors time the trek to the summit to arrive at dawn to view the crater and volcanoes at their ethereal best.

10. The Gili Islands, Lombok

Best place for beach parties.

These tiny dollops of coral and sand off the coast of Lombok carry an outsized reputation thanks to their crystalline turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, ambitious vegan and health food restaurants, renowned freediving schools and epic beach parties. The Gilis started out as a boho backpacker destination, but the islands now cater to all types of travelers, with everything from backstreet hostels to luxurious beachfront cabanas (beach huts). 

Gili Trawangan (aka ‘Gili T’) is the largest and most developed of the islands, with a main drag that heaves with shops, massage parlors and cafes. Gili Meno is the smallest and most traditional island, while Gili Air offers the best of both worlds and is a lively hub for yoga tourism.

This article was first published Apr 21, 2022 and updated Dec 10, 2023.

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• Philippines
• New Zealand
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

Is Indonesia worth visiting? Let’s put it this way:Here’s a land of 17,000 islands, strung out from the Sulu Sea to the Indian Ocean, threaded by palm-topped beaches, blessed with some of the best surf this side of Hawaii, crumpled by smoking volcanoes and dashed with primeval jungles where orangutans still swing in the boughs of teak trees. AKA – yes! Indonesia is totally worth visiting.

If you’re lucky enough to get the chance to jet over to this sun-splashed corner of the globe, then get ready for a real wonderworld of adventure, culture, history, and natural beauty. From the surf meccas of Bali and Lombok to the remote rainforests that cover Sulawesi to the soaring mountain calderas that belch ash into the airs of Java, this land of coffee and coastlines could just be the experience of a lifetime.

So, is Indonesia worth visiting? Read on to see 11 reasons why we think this incredible archipelago nation should be on everyone’s bucket list. We’ve included some of the most iconic aspects of the country – like the isle of Bali, where the black-sand beaches tumble into the surf – along with some of the lesser known things – like the primeval dragons of Komodo. Let’s begin…

Table of Contents

Komodo dragons

The Komodo dragon can reach up to 10 feet in length and weigh more than 300 pounds. They are the world’s heaviest lizard and a darn sight to be seen, that’s for sure. They stalk all of the protected and remote Sunda Islands, many of which now fall within the boundaries of the Komodo National Park.

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Although they can walk up to seven miles a day, they much prefer to stay close to home, never venturing too far from where they were hatched. Eating up to an incredible 80% of their body weight in a single sitting, feasting on almost anything, these lizards are masters of camouflage, so make sure to keep your eyes open when visiting the reserve if you’re keen on an encounter.

In 1980, Indonesia established the Komodo National Park to help protect these unique lizards and their habitats. The preserve now stretches for 700 square miles and also provides a refuge for many other terrestrial animals, such as the orange-footed scrub fowl, the Sulawesi giant rat, and the Timor deer.

It also supports rich marine environments that host whales, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, corals, sponges, manta rays – the list goes on. What’s more UNESCO has now declared the whole area a World Heritage Site and it’s also darn stunning, with pink-tinged beaches and dusty mountains galore. Wowza.

Indonesia has some seriously fantastic hotels

Whether it’s in the capital city of Jakarta, by the shores of jet-setter-fav Nusa Dua in Bali, or a yoga retreat on the beautiful Gili Islands that dot the Bali Sea, you can get ready for some seriously spectacular hotel options in this corner of the planet. Fusing elements of Dutch colonial design with the mysticism of Southeast Asia, some of the stays here manage to take luxury to all new and dizzying heights. They often come with on-site spa facilities, gyms, and – of course – swimming pools of all shapes and sizes.

There’s definitely not enough room in this guide to list all of the enticing hotels across the 17,000 islands of Indo. However, we’ve picked out just one or two that lead the way, including five-star palaces in the buzzy capital and uber-romantic honeymoon spots on the Isle of the Gods. Check them out:

• The Hermitage ($$$) – A gorgeous hotel in the frenetic heart of Jakarta, The Hermitage is a Tribute Portfolio Hotel that oozes a nostalgic feel through it’s Dutch-era architecture. Inside, the rooms are grand and opulent, with chandeliers and marble bathrooms, with many opening to offer courtyard views of the swimming pool.
• The Apurva Kempinski Bali ($$$) – You won’t want to leave the Apurva Kempinski Bali. Set above the yellow-tinged beaches and reefs of Nusa Dua, it’s a highly rated resort hotel with a touch of classic Balinese style and a sumptuous spa to boot.
• Hotel Tugu Lombok ($$$) – Explore the remoter island of Lombok (more on that below) in style, by choosing to stay at this exclusive resort hotel on hidden Sire Beach. The villa suites spill onto the sands, or offer private pools in the gardens. It’s got honeymoon written all over.
• Menjangan Dynasty Resort ($$$) – Perched on the northwest tip of Bali, this highly rated resort is a honeymoon fav. Come for a remote beach overlooking the mountains, private yacht charters, scuba packages and more.

Bali & Lombok

If we had to pick out just two islands from the nigh-on 20,000 that make up the country of Indonesia for this list, it would have to be Bali and Lombok. They reign as the two most popular island destinations in the country, offering endless beaches, a hit of intriguing Hindu culture, and more surfing than you could possibly get through in a single trip.

Let’s start with Bali. The legendary Isle of the Gods, it’s not at all like the rest of Indo. The first thing you’re likely to notice is that the minarets of mosques have been replaced with the carved stone tops of Hindu shrines. On top of that, you get a trio of resort towns on the south coast – Kuta, Legian, Seminyak – that come packed with hostels and surf camps. Go further and you’ll hit Canggu, the world’s current digital nomad mecca. Go south and you come to Bukit, where surf breaks like Ulus and Padang Padang roar into the cliffs. It’s bucket-list stuff from head to toe.

From there, look east. The isle of Lombok lies just across the strait. It’s much more than just a surfer’s paradise, although it is that, too – check out the breaks of Kuta Lombok. Massive volcanos like Mount Rinjani score the skyline for trekkers who want to find glimmering lakes on high. Fishing towns like Senggigi are now dotted with lux villas that spill onto the white-sand beaches. And this is the gateway to the smaller islands of the Gilis, for when you want to party and laze in hammocks and soak up the sun.

It’s not too expensive

Is Indonesia worth visiting if you’re traveling on a budget? Well, yes. Southeast Asia as a whole is considered to be one of the best bargain regions for those on a shoestring. Thankfully, Indonesia lives up to that rep. It’s one of the most inexpensive places to both live and explore in this corner of the globe. More than that, average vacation costs here are estimated to be around half of what they are in Thailand, and roughly in line with the prices paid in very low-cost countries like Vietnam.

Backpacking travelers can even get by on a budget of around $10 a day. With $20 a day, we think you’ll be able to add in some fun activities, while $40 a day gets you into the nicer restaurants and the better hotels. Talking of hotels, there are some excellent bargains to be had in these parts, with even 5-star palaces coming in at just over $55 a night on occasion, usually if you manage to get a good deal during the rainy season.

Some other sorts of prices you can expect in this wallet-friendly part of the planet are:

• A domestic beer like Bintang in a bar: 35,000 IDR ($2.40)
• A meal in an inexpensive local restaurant: 25,000 IDR ($1.70)
• An internal flight from Jakarta to Bali without bags: 570,000 IDR ($42)

The culture & history

Although Indonesia only found independence in the 1940s, its story goes back many millennia. In fact, the discovery of the so-called Java Man, the remains of an early hominid thought to be up to a million years old, indicate that the tale of this land goes back very far indeed. Little is known how the first organized towns and civilizations arrived, but arguably the most influential episode came with the coming of islanders from across the Pacific sometime around 2,000 BC.

That started a period where the archipelago of Indonesia was predominantly inhabited by seafaring fishing communities. The religion that first came to the fore also wasn’t the Islam that dominates today. Instead, it was Hinduism, which flourished with the Srivijaya trade empire that stretched from here to southern Cambodia and Thailand. Buddhism also arrived sometime in the 10th century, leaving mighty religious buildings like the great temples of Borobudur (a must-see for culture lovers on Java) in its wake.

The colonial era meant that powers from Europe came and fought over Indonesia, with a particular eye on the strategic sea trading lanes and the wealth of the rainforests. It’s possible to see traces of that age’s architecture in the structures of cities like Jakarta and Semarang today, while the National Museum of Indonesia is the place to go for a bit more background into that tumultuous but defining period.

Indonesia is an island nation. Yep, that means it’s probably going to be a touch trickier to get around than, say, Thailand. However, it also means there’s an abundance of ocean to explore. It’s pretty hard to get too far from the sea here, even when you’re clambering up the volcanos in the heart of Java .

One of the best and most sought-after spots for snorkeling and diving is Raja Ampat. It’s hailed as the crown jewel of the Coral Triangle, a region of rich coral gardens that, in turn, has been called the “Amazon of the Seas”. Heading there means getting to see an incredibly diverse range of marine life, including over 550 species of coral and more than 1,000 different species of coral fish. Tempted? The best way to arrive at Raja Ampat is by direct flight from Jakarta to Sorong and then a boat transfer out to the diving camps.

An alternative option is to hit the Gili Islands. They are another of the scuba hotspots of Indo but there has been a lot of recent discussion about out-of-control pollution levels. We’re not entirely sure what the situation is now, but when we visited in 2013, the Bali Sea that washes against the shores of these three pinprick islets of Lombok was clear and booming with life – sea turtles were a regular sighting even before breakfast!

The cuisine

The Indonesian kitchen is a hodgepodge of influences from all over the Indian Ocean basin. You get the fiery flair of Thailand mixed with the earthy subtleties of the Pacific islands, a touch of exotic Polynesia combining with the tangy umami of China and the Far East. Food lovers – especially those with a penchant for soy and chili – will not be disappointed!

One of the most well-known traditional dishes throughout Indonesia is nasi goreng. If you only have time to sample one national dish, make it that! It’s basically a quick-wok fry of rice, fried egg, kecap manis soy sauce, chili and green veggies, often topped with peanuts and beansprouts. There’s also a noodle version known as mie goreng. On top of that, you also might want to sample:

• Basko – A savory soup served with chicken broth, yellow noodles, fried shallots, celery, hot sauce, and special meatballs made with beef.
• Bir Pletok – A non-alcoholic beverage made from ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, sugar, and lemongrass.
• Gado Gado – A mashup of blanched veg, boiled egg, peanut sauce, and zingy citrus dressing.
• Satay – Try these skewers with peanut satay sauce from street-food vendors all across the country. They come in meat and in veg options, usually made from tempeh or tofu.

Finally, the same goes in Indo as goes in India, Thailand, and Cambodia: Eat local for the best experience. In Jakarta that means checking out the street food bazaars where Gulai Tikungan outlets abound, or hitting the traditional warung taverns (family owned kitchens) of Bali and Lombok. They’re also sure to be cheaper than the hotel eatery!

Indonesia is up there with Hawaii and France and Australia as unquestionably one of the world’s most legendary surf destinations. A number of the most iconic waves around make their home here, and there are spots to suit all levels, from complete beginners to total pros.

Bali is usually the go-to place. We’ve surfed there for years, and, although line ups have swelled a lot, the quality of the breaks and the surf infrastructure is, simply, on another level. First time riders can make for the bumping resort town of Kuta on the south coast, where oodles of rental spots and trainers are located right on the sand. Oh, and all of the waves there are relatively easy-going beach breaks. Those looking for a challenge should be sure to venture to Bukit – a peninsula to the south that holds the likes of Uluwatu , Padang Padang, and Green Balls.

Don’t go thinking that the surf in Indonesia is limited to Bali, either. The next-door isle of Lombok has epic intermediate reef breaks in its own Kuta on the south coast, along with strong point breaks in Sengiggi. Then you get the likes of G Land in East Java, a barrelling left-hand rifle bolt of a wave that attracts the Kelly Slaters among us. Finally, upcoming surf areas like the Mentawais also beckon, offering empty reef breaks and unexplored coastline.

Nature and national parks

Indonesia is a wild, wild land. Make no mistake that the likes of Kuta, Bali and Jakarta are more than outnumbered here by untamed swathes of rainforests, smoke-belching mountains and idyllic coastal reserves where you’re more likely to meet a manta ray that a coconut tout. Yep, for those who really want to stray off the beaten path in Asia these days, Indonesia has plenty of options, including well over 50 designated national parks. Ones we think are worthy of the bucket list include:

• Komodo National Park – A strange land of pink-tinged beaches and islands inhabited by prehistoric dragons (see above for more info on this one!).
• Mount Leuser National Park – A vast enclave of old-growth forest in Sumatra, where you might just spot an orangutan in the wild!
• Bunaken National Park – Covering the rich coral gardens of Sulawesi, this one’s for encountering angelfish, seahorses, and brain sponges.
• Ujung Kulon National Park – A one-horned rhino that’s uber-endangered still lives in this highly protected reserve in Java, as do leopards, gibbons, and macaques.
• Kerinci Seblat National Park – Encompassing 14,000 square kilometers of land, this rather unknown park is for the Bear Grylls out there, offering sightings of wild forest elephants and off-radar trekking.

To dazzle the Insta feed

Indonesia is pretty darn stunning. We’ve probably already hammered that home by waxing lyrical about the coral-tinged beaches of Komodo and the smoky mountains of Java. What’s certain is that it’s a veritable palette for the Instagram artist and the budding travel photographer. There are locations here that will dazzle on your feed; places that will garner thumbs up as faster than the surf barrels peel into Uluwatu.

Of course, half the fun will be in finding the most photo-worthy locations for yourself. But here are a few suggestions to get started with:

• Tanah Lot – A Balinese temple on a craggy rock surrounded by the Indian Ocean.
• Borobudur – The rows and rows of stone-carved stupas here look especially moody at sunrise.
• Mount Bromo – Catch a mist in the valley below and Bromo rising up in the middle: Bingo!
• Hanging Gardens Of Bali – Lush terraces of palm trees and paddies in the heart of Bali. There’s a hotel with an infinity pool that’s a darling of the influencer crowd.

It’s easy to get to

Okay, okay, so we appreciate that this is a subjective thing. It all depends on where you start from, right? True. But the point is that Indonesia is one of the hubs of Southeast Asia. It’s well placed on the Equator between the isles of the Philippines to the east and the Malay Peninsula to the north. Basically, if you’re looking to put together a trip from one end of the region to the other, it’s an obvious pitstop on the way.

More than that, it serves as an arrival point for loads of low-cost short-haul connections, not to mention a destination for oodles of long-haul flights that come in from Europe and North America. Take the Soekarno–Hatta International Airport in Jakarta as an example. It’s the most popular arrival point in Indo, but by no means the only one. Still, there’s a line up of flights going there that includes connections to Kuala Lumpur with AirAsia, Singapore with Batik Air and others, and everywhere from Sydney to Texas with the bigger carriers and flag carriers.

Trends in airfare revealed by Momondo show that the cheapest time to look for flights to Indonesia is around March, and then again in October. There are noticeable peaks in the cost of tickets around Christmas and New Year. It’s also always a good idea to book your seats as early as possible, as flights to major tourist destinations like Jakarta and Bali can skyrocket at short notice.

So, is Indonesia worth visiting?

Is Indonesia worth visiting? How could that ever be in doubt? This incredible country of ancient Buddhist temples and rich Islamic culture ranges from the Sulu Sea to the edges of Malaysia. As it goes, it offers of endangered beasts, some of the finest surf spots on Earth, taste-bud tingling food, trekking through old-growth jungle, and some pretty fantastic hotels. What’s more, this guide is really only scratching the surface – there are oodles more reasons why Indo should be in your sights but we’ll let you discover them for yourself when you land!

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What we know about CrowdStrike’s update fail that’s causing global outages and travel chaos

A faulty software update issued by security giant CrowdStrike has resulted in a massive overnight outage that’s affected Windows computers around the world , disrupting businesses, airports, train stations, banks, broadcasters and the healthcare sector.

CrowdStrike said the outage was not caused by a cyberattack, but was the result of a “defect” in a software update for its flagship security product, Falcon Sensor. The defect caused any Windows computers that Falcon is installed on to crash without fully loading.

“The issue has been identified, isolated and a fix has been deployed,” said CrowdStrike in a statement on Friday . Some businesses and organizations are beginning to recover, but many expect the outages to drag on into the weekend or next week given the complexity of the fix. CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz told NBC News that it may take “some time for some systems that just automatically won’t recover.” In a later tweet , Kurtz apologized for the disruption.

Here’s everything you need to know about the outages.

What happened?

Late Thursday into Friday, reports began to emerge of IT problems wherein Windows computers were getting stuck with the infamous “blue screen of death” — a bright blue error screen with a message that displays when Windows encounters a critical failure, crashes or cannot load.

The outages were first noticed in Australia early on Friday, and reports quickly came in from the rest of Asia and Europe as the regions began their day, as well as the United States.

Within a short time, CrowdStrike confirmed that a software update for Falcon had malfunctioned and was causing Windows computers that had the software installed to crash. Falcon lets CrowdStrike remotely analyze and check for malicious threats and malware on installed computers.

At around the same time, Microsoft reported a significant outage at one of its most used Azure cloud regions covering much of the central United States. A spokesperson for Microsoft told TechCrunch that its outage was unrelated to CrowdStrike’s incident .

Around Friday noon (Eastern time), Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella posted on X saying the company is aware of the CrowdStrike botched update and is “working closely with CrowdStrike and across the industry to provide customers technical guidance and support to safely bring their systems back online.”

What is CrowdStrike and what does Falcon Sensor do?

CrowdStrike, founded in 2011, has quickly grown into a cybersecurity giant. Today the company provides software and services to 29,000 corporate customers, including around half of Fortune 500 companies, 43 out of 50 U.S. states and eight out of the top 10 tech firms, according to its website .

The company’s cybersecurity software, Falcon, is used by enterprises to manage security on millions of computers around the world. These businesses include large corporations, hospitals, transportation hubs and government departments. Most consumer devices do not run Falcon and are unaffected by this outage.

One of the company’s biggest recent claims to fame was when it caught a group of Russian government hackers breaking into the Democratic National Committee ahead of the 2016 U.S. presidential election. CrowdStrike is also known for using memorable animal-themed names for the hacking groups it tracks based on their nationality, such as: Fancy Bear , believed to be part of Russia’s General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate, or GRU; Cozy Bear , believed to be part of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, or SVR; Gothic Panda , believed to be a Chinese government group; and Charming Kitten , believed to be an Iranian state-backed group. The company even makes action figures to represent these groups, which it sells as swag .

CrowdStrike is so big it’s one of the sponsors of the Mercedes F1 team , and this year even aired a Super Bowl ad — a first for a cybersecurity company. 

Who are the outages affecting?

Practically anyone who during their everyday life interacts with a computer system running software from CrowdStrike is affected, even if the computer isn’t theirs. 

These devices include the cash registers at grocery stores, departure boards at airports and train stations, school computers, your work-issued laptops and desktops, airport check-in systems, airlines’ own ticketing and scheduling platforms, healthcare networks and many more. Because CrowdStrike’s software is so ubiquitous, the outages are causing chaos around the world in a variety of ways. A single affected Windows computer in a fleet of systems could be enough to disrupt the network. 

TechCrunch reporters around the world are seeing and experiencing outages, including at points of travel, doctors’ offices and online. Early on Friday, the Federal Aviation Administration put in effect a ground stop, effectively grounding flights across the United States, citing the disruption. It looks like so far the national Amtrak rail network is functioning as normal. 

What is the U.S. government doing so far?

Given that the problem stems from a company, there isn’t much that the U.S. federal government can do. According to a pool report, President Biden was briefed on the CrowdStrike outage, and “his team is in touch with CrowdStrike and impacted entities.” That’s in large part because the federal government is a customer of CrowdStrike and also affected.

Several federal agencies are affected by the incident, including the Department of Education , and Social Security Administration, which said Friday that it closed its offices as a result of the outage.

The pool report said Biden’s team is “engaged across the interagency to get sector by sector updates throughout the day and is standing by to provide assistance as needed.” 

In a separate tweet, Homeland Security said it was working with its U.S. cybersecurity agency CISA, CrowdStrike and Microsoft — as well as its federal, state, local and critical infrastructure partners — to “fully assess and address system outages.”

There will no doubt be questions for CrowdStrike (and to some extent Microsoft, whose unrelated outage also caused disruption overnight for its customers) from government and congressional investigators. 

For now, the immediate focus will be on the recovery of affected systems.

How do affected customers fix their Windows computers?

The major problem here is that CrowdStrike’s Falcon Sensor software malfunctioned, causing Windows machines to crash, and there’s no easy way to fix that. 

So far, CrowdStrike has issued a patch, and it has also detailed a workaround that could help affected systems function normally until it has a permanent solution. One option is for users to “reboot the [affected computer] to give it an opportunity to download the reverted channel file,” referring to the fixed file.

In a message to users , CrowdStrike detailed a few steps customers can take, one of which requires physical access to an affected system to remove the defective file. CrowdStrike says users should boot the computer into Safe Mode or Windows Recovery Environment, navigate to the CrowdStrike directory, and delete the faulty file “C-00000291*.sys.”

The wider problem with having to fix the file manually could be a major headache for companies and organizations with large numbers of computers, or Windows-powered servers in datacenters or locations that might be in another region, or an entirely different country.

CISA warns that malicious actors are ‘taking advantage’ of the outage

In a statement on Friday, CISA attributed the outages to the faulty CrowdStrike update and that the issue was not due to a cyberattack. CISA said that it was “working closely with CrowdStrike and federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners, as well as critical infrastructure and international partners to assess impacts and support remediation efforts.”

CISA did note, however, that it has “observed threat actors taking advantage of this incident for phishing and other malicious activity.” The cybersecurity agency did not provide more specifics, but warned organizations to stay vigilant.

Malicious actors can and will exploit confusion and chaos to carry out cyberattacks on their own. Rachel Tobac, a social engineering expert and founder of cybersecurity firm SocialProof Security, said in a series of posts on X to “verify people are who they say they are before taking sensitive actions.”

“Criminals will attempt to use this IT outage to pretend to be IT to you or you to IT to steal access, passwords, codes, etc.,” Tobac said.

What do we know about misinformation so far?

It’s easy to understand why some might have thought that this outage was a cyberattack. Sudden outages, blue screens at airports, office computers filled with error messages, and chaos and confusion. As you might expect, a fair amount of misinformation is already flying around , even as social media sites incorrectly flag trending topics like “cyberattack.”

Remember to check official sources of news and information, and if something seems too good to be true, it might just well be.

TechCrunch will keep this report updated throughout the day.

TechCrunch’s Ram Iyer contributed reporting.

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The first-timer’s guide to Indonesia’s Komodo Islands

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The first-timer’s guide to Indonesia’s Komodo Islands. Photo / Getty Images

With a group of friends, Erik Trinidad cruises around Indonesia’s Komodo Islands on a classic, but modernised schooner, on the prowl for wildlife

When I accepted an invitation to be a part of my friend’s trip on a luxury charter yacht cruise around the Komodo Islands of Indonesia, I was excited that I might encounter the endangered giant lizards that are eponymous with the region. With Komodo dragons on my mind, I’d somehow forgotten that Mother Nature has birthed many other creatures to behold – and it wasn’t long before some made their appearance. During our first sunset at sea, when our yacht anchored off the coast of Kalong Island, we gawked at not only our awe-inspiring star descending below the horizon but also the astonishing parade of fruit bats soaring above, ready to start their night. Gliding in the orange hues of twilight, they flew high enough above us not to conjure up any feelings of vampiric, supernatural dread, but rather, an appreciation for the wild, natural world.

READ MORE: A family-friendly holiday to Borneo for jungle adventures and orangutans

As the nocturnal creatures began hunting for breakfast, I couldn’t help but realise that we observed this spectacle of nature from the comfort of the KLM Celestia, just as we were about to enjoy a meal ourselves – no hunting required, and that perhaps our admiration for these wild fruit bats might not have been as magical if we hadn’t been observing them from the luxury of a yacht.

Celestia is a classic but modernised phinisi – a traditional Indonesian schooner – that made its maiden voyage in June 2023 and has since brought small charter groups on tours of the Komodo Islands, the Maluku Islands, Raja Ampa and other destinations around the archipelagic nation. Celestia is the result of a pandemic-times family project by Indonesian siblings Jason Tabalujan and Jasmine Chong, who commissioned the construction of the 45-metre vessel, combining old, Unesco-recognised boat-building techniques, new technologies, and modern amenities across its seven staterooms and common areas. It’s aesthetically held together by a clean and elegant interior design tastefully executed by Jasmine Chong herself, who works as a fashion designer in New York City . Celestia prides itself on exuding the “art of being with nature, at sea” while also being proudly Indonesian-owned and operated amidst many foreign-owned charter yachts.

By the third day of our five-day/four-night authentically Indonesian sea voyage, I’d still not yet encountered a Komodo dragon, and I wondered if that was due to their dwindled population. However, I was still enthralled by other creatures from Mother Nature, particularly ones underwater. Celestia is fully equipped with scuba equipment, and with the dive crew I marvelled at the multitude of colourful tropical fish, curious moray eels, a peacock mantis shrimp, and two magnificent giant manta rays gracefully soaring right beside us while traversing a bay. Above all, my mind was blown when stumbling upon a chameleon-like cuttlefish that first came into sight with its tentacles upright to appear as dark staghorn coral, but then magically color- and shape-shifted back to normal right before my eyes when swimming away.

As enthralling as scuba diving can be, it certainly takes its toll on the body – but that wasn’t anything the onboard masseuse couldn’t knead away in a massage therapy session. However, one muscular organ still needed attention: my stomach, which was easily satisfied by Celestia’s galley staff, under direction of Indonesian Executive Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa. Over the five days, they prepared and served food ranging from Western dishes to classic Indonesian fare, including my local favourites beef rendang, tempeh lodeh (coconut milk-based veg stew), and gado gado (veg with tofu and fried peanuts) – all given a spicy kick with scratch-made sambal (spicy chili sauce).

Meals fuelled our bodies for water sports around the ship, and the several landings we made around the Komodo archipelago. For a change of scenery one morning, we laid out to relax on the rose-hued sands of Pink Beach. One afternoon, we hiked up the steps to one of the peak summits of Padar Island for another awe-inspiring sunset. Another time, we strolled the sandbar of Taka Makassar, which appears only at low tide. One evening, we landed on a private island for a friend’s birthday dinner party, perfectly executed by Celestia’s crew with great food and live music. And because we were in the Komodos, we made an obligatory landing on Rinca Island, home of the main visitors’ centre of Komodo National Park, where I finally had an encounter with the indigenous dragons that had captivated me since before the cruise began.

A Unesco World Heritage Site since 1991, Komodo National Park is home to the remaining majority of about 3000 of the world’s largest living, albeit endangered, lizards. With the guidance of a few park rangers, we sought to find the lizards in their natural environment, and it wasn’t long before one sauntered into our midst. Soon, we encountered a few more dragons. If those fortuitous encounters weren’t enough to gratify me, what followed was yet another scene of raw nature: a male mounted a female to enter a mating ritual, right before our eyes.

The sight of an endangered species procreating for its survival was another magical moment of Mother Nature and from here, we departed the wild to continue sailing in the lap of comfort and style; Celestia pampering us until the very last sunset.

KOMODO ISLANDS

GETTING THERE

Fly from Auckland to Bali with one stopover in about 11 hours 30 minutes, or fly from Auckland to Jakarta in 16 hours 30 minutes with one stopover.

Cruises going to the Komodo Islands typically start from Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, an easy domestic flight from either Jakarta or Bali international airports. However, since Celestia cruises are bespoke, some guests have journeyed to the Komodo archipelago and Labuan Bajo by sea from Bali’s Serangan harbour.

When to go: It’s best to go to the Komodo Islands in the dry season, April through October.

Visas: New Zealand passport holders can get a visa on arrival, which is valid for 30 days.

To charter Celestia for groups of up to 14 people, visit celestiayacht.com

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FAST FACTS: The ties that bind the Philippines and Indonesia

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo walks with Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. as they inspect the honour guards upon their arrival at the?Presidential?Palace?in?Bogor, Indonesia, September 5, 2022, in this photo taken by Antara Foto. Antara Foto/Sigid Kurniawan/via REUTERS

Via REUTERS

MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s first state visit, from September 4 to 6, is to Southeast Asian neighbor Indonesia, a country the Philippines has had diplomatic relations with for over 70 years.

According to a release from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Marcos and Indonesian President Joko Widodo are “expected to discuss the two countries’ active and multi-faceted cooperation on defense, maritime, border, economic, and people-to-people cooperation” and “exchange views on major issues affecting the region and the world.” 

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, was the Philippines’ 8th largest trading partner in 2021 , according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

Here are some things to know about the relations between the two countries:

Strong ties

According to Indonesian political observer Ikrar Nusa Bhakti in a 2017 book, the Philippines and Indonesia have generally avoided turbulence in their bilateral relations since diplomatic relations were established on November 24, 1949.

One cause of strain between the two countries in the past, according to Bhakti, was when then-United States president Dwight Eisenhower’s administration used American military bases in Subic and Clark in the Philippines to undertake Central Intelligence Agency operations to support the Pemerintahan Semesta (Permesta) secessionist rebellion in the Indonesian island of Sulawesi from 1957 to 1959.

But the Philippines and Indonesia have maintained ties through geography, trade, migration, assimilation, and intermarriage. Former foreign secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. also mentioned in a December 2019 speech the countries’ “natural affinity” derived from linguistic, cultural, and religious ties, as well as mutual shared defense.

As trading partners, the Philippines and Indonesia have enjoyed agreements in various industries. These include satellite internet, coal supply, energy, data centers, construction, and infrastructure. 

“Indonesia has a robust financial technology industry with so many unicorns and decacorns that, we believe, should be co-opted by the Philippines,” Mark Castro, secretary general of the Philippine Business Club Indonesia, told Rappler.

Bhakti wrote that changing governments in Indonesia and the Philippines have not changed cordial and fully cooperative relations between the two countries, even through issues related to border crossings, undocumented migrants, or transnational crime.

In Mindanao, Indonesian Sangir communities can be found in Sarangani and Balut islands in Davao del Sur, as well as in South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Davao City, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, and North Cotabato. Migration of the Sangirs from Indonesia to the Philippines have been traced back to the 1600s. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, around 8,745 persons of Indonesian descent have been recorded in Mindanao as of 2016. Indonesian law puts these migrants at risk of becoming stateless, but the two countries have cooperated in confirming their citizenship.

“In the Philippines’s pantheon of diplomatic relationships, our relations with Indonesia is unique for the genuine sense of kinship and fraternity, the long historical origins of our friendship, and the concrete help Indonesia has repeatedly extended to the Philippines in those places where it has been most vulnerable to violent threats to the unity and territorial integrity of the Philippine Republic,” Locsin said .

The Philippines and Indonesia have an agreement on the boundary of their overlapping exclusive economic zones . This was formed following a huge overlap in the two countries’ EEZ, which run across the Mindanao Sea and the Celebes Sea, as well as in the Philippine Sea’s southern section in the Pacific Ocean.

The agreement, first discussed in June 1994, was formally signed in Manila in May 2014. It was later ratified by then-president Rodrigo Duterte in February 2017 and concurred by the Philippine Senate in June 2019.

Indonesia hosted the negotiations and the historic 1996 signing of the peace agreement, known as the Jakarta Accord, between the Philippine government and the Moro National Liberation Front. The signing was the culmination of four years of peace talks, and the end to the 24-year struggle waged by the MNLF for independence and autonomy.

In 2019, the Indonesian government implemented a “ Philippines First Policy ” that prioritizes Philippine agricultural goods for importation. Then-agriculture secretary Emmanuel Piñol said Indonesia now recognized the Philippines as a “priority source for the things they will need before sourcing it from other countries.”

In February 2020, both countries also signed a defense industry deal in Jakarta. Agreements were underway for Indonesia to export aircraft and ships to the Philippines in the coming years to boost the Philippines’ military capabilities. 

The deal paved the way for the two countries to cooperate in procurement, transfer of technology, and defense material exports in the domain of the defense industry. Indonesian state-owned companies can now offer their products to Philippine logistics.

On Monday, September 5, the Marcos and Widodo administrations renewed the 1997 Agreement on Cooperative Activities in the Field of Defense and Security , the framework of the Philippines and Indonesia’s defense and security cooperation. This agreement tackles joint and combined training activities, border security, exchange of visits, sharing of information, development of interoperability, and education.

They also signed the following:

• Plan of action between the Indonesian and Philippine governments from 2022 to 2027
• Memorandum of understanding between the Indonesian and Philippine governments on cultural cooperation
• Memorandum of understanding for cooperation in developing and promoting creative economy between Indonesia and the Philippines 

Filipino community

There are around 7,451 Filipinos in Indonesia as of June 2022, according to government data.

Most Filipinos hold managerial, technical, or professional-level positions as company directors, engineers, accountants, supervisors, and teachers.

Overseas Filipinos in Indonesia remitted $17.5 million to the Philippines in 2021, according to the DFA.

“Your good standing in Indonesian society has contributed to sustaining trade, tourism, and people-to-people links between our countries. Your success here makes us all back home very, very, very proud,” said Marcos when he met the community in Jakarta at the Fairmont Hotel on Sunday, September 4.

The tight-knit community has shown instances of bayanihan in the past, such as during the COVID-19 outbreak when Indonesia dealt with being an Asian virus epicenter in July 2021. 

Through virus surge and separation, Filipinos in Indonesia closer than ever

The detention and possible execution of OFW Mary Jane Veloso over drug-related crimes has remained, pending discussion between the two countries for over a decade. Three presidents have had her case on their agenda with Indonesia: Benigno Aquino III, Rodrigo Duterte, and now Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (READ: What you should know about the case of Mary Jane Veloso )

Indonesia has some of the toughest laws against illegal drug use in the world, with Veloso’s case reaching a death sentence verdict just a few months after she was caught in Yogyakarta carrying a suitcase with packs of heroin hidden in its lining. Veloso has claimed she was duped into becoming a drug mule by a recruiter who originally offered her domestic work in Malaysia.

In April 2015, Veloso requested her family not to harm the Philippines’ ties with Indonesia , according to the DFA.

Then-DFA spokesman Charles Jose said that the Philippines did not expect its relations with Indonesia “to be affected by this particular case.”

“Indonesia and the Philippines enjoy very close bilateral relations,” said Jose, citing the two countries’ membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as well as “many areas of cooperation.”

Indonesia suspended Veloso’s execution after her alleged recruiter surrendered to Philippine authorities. However, she remains on the death row. – with reports from Ashley dela Vega/Rappler.com

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Huge Microsoft Outage Caused by CrowdStrike Takes Down Computers Around the World

Banks, airports, TV stations, health care organizations, hotels, and countless other businesses are all facing widespread IT outages, leaving flights grounded and causing widespread disruption, after Windows machines have displayed errors worldwide.

In the early hours of Friday, companies in Australia running Microsoft’s Windows operating system started reporting devices showing Blue Screens of Death (BSODs). Shortly after, reports of disruptions started flooding in from around the world, including from the UK, India, Germany, the Netherlands, and the US: TV station Sky News went offline, and US airlines United, Delta, and American Airlines issued a “ global ground stop ” on all flights.

The widespread Windows outages have been linked to a software update from cybersecurity giant ​​CrowdStrike. It is believed the issues are not linked to a malicious cyberattack, cybersecurity officials say, but rather stem from a misconfigured/corrupted update that CrowdStrike pushed out to its customers.

“Earlier today, a CrowdStrike update was responsible for bringing down a number of IT systems globally," said a Microsoft spokesperson in a statement. "We are actively supporting customers to assist in their recovery.”

Engineers from CrowdStrike posted to the company’s Reddit forum that it has seen “widespread reports of BSODs on Windows hosts” occurring across its software, is working on the problem, and has advised a workaround for impacted systems . It also issued instructions to its customers in an advisory .

The incident has only impacted devices running Windows and not other operating systems. It's unclear exactly how widespread the issues are and how long they will take to resolve.

Hours after the issues started to emerge, CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz issued a statement about the outages, saying the company has found a “defect” in an update for Windows that it issued. “This is not a security incident or cyberattack,” Kurtz said . “The issue has been identified, isolated, and a fix has been deployed.” In the statement, Kurtz confirmed that Mac and Linux hosts are not impacted by the update and said that its customers should refer to its support portal. He later apologized for the incident during a television interview .

At the same time as the CrowdStrike issues emerged, Microsoft was also dealing with its own, apparently unrelated, outage of its Azure cloud services . The company says the two incidents are not linked.

The outages could result in “millions” being lost by organizations impacted who have had to halt their operations or stop business, says Lukasz Olejnik, an independent cybersecurity consultant, who says the CrowdStrike update appears to be linked to its Falcon Sensor product. The Falcon system is part of CrowdStrike’s security tools and can block attacks on systems , according to the company.

“It reminds us about our dependence on IT and software,” Olejnik says. “When a system has several software systems maintained by various vendors, this is equivalent to placing trust on them. They may be a single point of failure—like here, when various firms feel the impact.”

The outage stemming from the CrowdStrike update has had a huge knock-on impact on public services and businesses around the world. Scores of airports are facing delays and long queues, with one passenger in India sharing a hand-written boarding pass that they have been issued. In the hours after the outages first emerged, more than 4,000 flights around the world have been canceled, although not all of them may have been directly linked to the disruption .

Within health care and emergency services, various medical providers around the world have reported issues with their Windows-linked systems, sharing news on social media or their own websites. The US Emergency Alert System, which issues hurricane warnings, said that there had been various 911 outages in a number of states. In Portland, mayor Ted Wheeler declared a city emergency as a result of some of the outages, although also said many systems were being restored. White House officials say president Joe Biden has been "briefed" on the CrowdStrike outages and his team is monitoring the situation.

Germany’s University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein said it was canceling some nonurgent surgeries at two locations . In Israel, more than a dozen hospitals have been impacted, as well as pharmacies, with reports saying ambulances have been rerouted to unimpacted medical organizations.

In the UK, NHS England has confirmed that GP appointment and patient record systems have been affected by the outages. One hospital has declared a “critical” incident after a third-party IT system it used was impacted. Also in the country, train operators have said there are delays across the network, with multiple companies being impacted.

Indicating the far-reaching nature of the disruption, the organizers of the Paris Olympics, which is due to start next week, said that its systems have been impacted in a “limited way.” According to a statement from the organizers, the affected systems are linked to the delivery of uniforms and its ticketing system hasn’t been impacted.

Among other services, CrowdStrike provides endpoint detection and response (EDR) to companies around the world. This EDR technology runs on thousands of “endpoints”—such as computers, ATMs, and internet-of-things devices—and scans them to identify real-time threats, such as malicious activity from cybercriminals. The company has more than 24,000 customers around the world.

Cybersecurity researcher Kevin Beaumont posted on X that he has seen a copy of the CrowdStrike update that was issued and says the file isn’t properly formatted and “causes Windows to crash every time.” Beaumont says, in further posts, that it appears there isn’t an automated way to fix the issues, at least currently. This may mean that impacted machines need to be manually rebooted before they can come back online, a process that could take hours or days depending on the impacted entity.

Brody Nisbet, the director of overwatch at CrowdStrike, also posted on X indicating that the workaround fix the company had issued involves booting up Windows machines into safe mode, finding a file called “C-00000291*.sys,” deleting it, and then rebooting the machine normally. “There is a fix of sorts so some devices in between BSODs should pick up the new channel file and remain stable,” Nisbet posted.

Update 7/19/24 1:35pm ET: This story has been updated with further comment from Microsoft, and additional details about the outage's impacts.

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Italy Carrier Strike Group Joins Australia War Games, Will Visit Philippines

The aircraft carrier Cavour is pictured in port at Darwin in northern Australia July 18, 2024. REUTERS/Kirsty Needham

By Kirsty Needham

DARWIN, Australia (Reuters) - An Italian carrier strike group on its first deployment to the Indo-Pacific region will sail through the South China Sea to the Philippines after participating in war games with U.S. allies in Australia, a senior Italian navy official said on Thursday.

The moves come amid rising tensions between China and some of its neighbours in the contested South China Sea region. About 40% of Europe's foreign trade flows through the South China Sea, where the United States, Japan, Australia and other nations have conducted joint maritime exercises they say uphold freedom of navigation. China claims almost the entire strategic waterway.

The Italian aircraft carrier Cavour is in the northern Australian town of Darwin taking part in Exercise Pitch Black this week, where Italy is contributing nearly two dozen fighter jets to the 20-nation drills with host Australia.

The United States, Britain, Japan, the Philippines and Papua New Guinea are also taking part.

It is the first time an aircraft carrier has joined the exercises, Italian Navy Rear Admiral Giancarlo Ciappina said.

Twenty-three Italian jets, including eight stealthy F-35Bs, are practising dogfights, strikes and other operations alongside its allies over huge swathes of largely unpopulated land in northern Australia.

"Pitch Black gives us a chance to work with the main F-35 communities, shoulder to shoulder," said Captain Dario Castelli, the strike group's carrier air wing commander. "In terms of deploying far from home, it is also an incredible logistics exercise for us."

After the current exercises end on Aug. 2, the 1,200-person strong Italian carrier strike group will travel to the U.S. Pacific territory of Guam and Japan, before transiting the South China Sea to the Philippines for the first time, Ciappina said.

'VERY POWERFUL TOOL'

Ciappina said his strike group did not plan to conduct any freedom of navigation operations.

The Cavour will carry out humanitarian work in the Philippines, performing surgery on children in the ship's hospital while at port in Manila, he said.

"An aircraft carrier - just being present somewhere, it has an effect, it can influence. It is a very powerful tool," Ciappina said.

Manila and Beijing have traded barbs repeatedly over jurisdiction as the the Philippines challenges China's permanent presence around strategic features inside Manila's exclusive economic zone.

Ciappina said the Italian Navy's first Indo-Pacific deployment improved its training and provided a better understanding of the region.

Although the deployment is not a NATO initiative, Italy has coordinated with the French Navy and Britain's Royal Navy, which will send ships to the region later in the year, to ensure significant capacity remains in the Mediterranean, he said.

"Everything is connected... that's why we have to also be present in the Pacific now," he said.

(Reporting by Kirsty Needham. Editing by Gerry Doyle and Gareth Jones)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Advertisement

Chaos and Confusion: Tech Outage Causes Disruptions Worldwide

Airlines, hospitals and people’s computers were affected after CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity company, sent out a flawed software update.

• Share full article

By Adam Satariano ,  Paul Mozur ,  Kate Conger and Sheera Frenkel

• July 19, 2024

Airlines grounded flights. Operators of 911 lines could not respond to emergencies. Hospitals canceled surgeries. Retailers closed for the day. And the actions all traced back to a batch of bad computer code.

A flawed software update sent out by a little-known cybersecurity company caused chaos and disruption around the world on Friday. The company, CrowdStrike , based in Austin, Texas, makes software used by multinational corporations, government agencies and scores of other organizations to protect against hackers and online intruders.

But when CrowdStrike sent its update on Thursday to its customers that run Microsoft Windows software, computers began to crash.

The fallout, which was immediate and inescapable, highlighted the brittleness of global technology infrastructure. The world has become reliant on Microsoft and a handful of cybersecurity firms like CrowdStrike. So when a single flawed piece of software is released over the internet, it can almost instantly damage countless companies and organizations that depend on the technology as part of everyday business.

“This is a very, very uncomfortable illustration of the fragility of the world’s core internet infrastructure,” said Ciaran Martin, the former chief executive of Britain’s National Cyber Security Center and a professor at the Blavatnik School of Government at Oxford University.

A cyberattack did not cause the widespread outage, but the effects on Friday showed how devastating the damage can be when a main artery of the global technology system is disrupted. It raised broader questions about CrowdStrike’s testing processes and what repercussions such software firms should face when flaws in their code cause major disruptions.

How a Software Update Crashed Computers Around the World

Here’s a visual explanation for how a faulty software update crippled machines.

While outages are common, often caused by technical errors or cyberattacks, the scale of what unfolded on Friday was unparalleled.

“This is historic,” said Mikko Hypponen, the chief research officer at WithSecure, a cybersecurity company. “We haven’t had an incident like this.”

George Kurtz, CrowdStrike’s chief executive, said that the company took responsibility for the mistake and that a software fix had been released. He warned that it could be some time before tech systems returned to normal.

“We’re deeply sorry for the impact that we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected by this,” he said in an interview on Friday on NBC’s “Today” show.

Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s chief executive, blamed CrowdStrike and said the company was working to help customers “bring their systems back online.” Apple and Linux machines were not affected by the CrowdStrike software update.

A White House official said the administration was in “regular contact” with CrowdStrike and had convened agencies to assess the impact of the outage on the federal government’s operations.

CrowdStrike, founded in 2011 by Mr. Kurtz and others, has built a reputation over the years as a firm that could solve even the toughest security problems. It was tapped to investigate a 2014 hack of Sony Pictures and the 2016 hack of the Democratic National Committee, which exposed Hillary Clinton’s emails.

But problems stemming from CrowdStrike’s products have surfaced before. In April, the company pushed a software update to customers running the Linux system that crashed computers, according to an internal CrowdStrike report sent to customers about the incident, which was obtained by The New York Times.

The bug, which did not appear to be related to Friday’s outage, took CrowdStrike nearly five days to fix, the report said. CrowdStrike promised to improve its testing process going forward, according to the report.

On Thursday, the tech issues began when Microsoft dealt with an outage on its cloud service system, Azure, which affected some airlines .

Then CrowdStrike sent an update for its software called Falcon Sensor , which scans a computer for intrusions and signs of hacking. If everything had gone according to plan, CrowdStrike’s software would have received minor improvements and customers would have hardly noticed.

Instead, when CrowdStrike’s faulty update reached computers running Microsoft Windows, it caused the machines to shut down and then endlessly reboot. Workers around the world were greeted with what is known as the “blue screen of death” on their computers. Insufficient testing at CrowdStrike was a likely source of the problem, experts said.

As computers restarted themselves over and over, known as the “doom loop,” there was little CrowdStrike could do to fix the problem. Tech staff at affected companies were faced with a choice: walk around to each machine and remove the bit of flawed code, or wait and hope for a solution from CrowdStrike.

The problems cascaded instantly. At Sydney Airport in Australia, travelers encountered delays and cancellations, as did those in Hong Kong, India, Dubai, Berlin and Amsterdam. At least five U.S. airlines — Allegiant Air, American, Delta, Spirit and United — grounded all flights for a time, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

How the airline cancellations rippled around the world (and across time zones)

Share of canceled flights at 25 airports on Friday

50% of flights

Ai r po r t

Bengalu r u K empeg o wda

Dhaka Shahjalal

Minneapolis-Saint P aul

Stuttga r t

Melbou r ne

Be r lin B r anden b urg

London City

Amsterdam Schiphol

Chicago O'Hare

Raleigh−Durham

B r adl e y

Cha r lotte

Reagan National

Philadelphia

1:20 a.m. ET

Health care systems were crippled, forcing hospitals to cancel noncritical surgeries. In the United States, 911 lines went down in multiple states, though many of those problems were being resolved later on Friday. Britain’s National Health Service also reported issues.

“We knew we had a catastrophe on our hands,” said B.J. Moore, the chief information officer for Providence Health, which has 52 hospitals in seven states. He said 15,000 servers were down and 40,000 out of Providence’s 150,000 computers were affected, adding that it was “worse than a cyberattack."

The United Parcel Service and FedEx said they were affected. Customers with TD Bank, one of the biggest banks in the United States, reported issues accessing their online accounts. Several state and municipal court systems closed for the day because of the outage.

At CrowdStrike, engineers described an atmosphere of confusion as the company struggled to contain the damage.

Executives urged employees not to speculate on why the mistake happened and directed them to focus on a fix for the computers that were affected, said two engineers who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Computers not connected to the cloud required a physical fix to the error introduced by CrowdStrike, they said, which could take weeks.

Within several hours of the faulty software going out, CrowdStrike sent out a software patch as a fix that would stop computers from endlessly rebooting.

Lukasz Olejnik, an independent cybersecurity researcher and consultant, said the outage would still take time to resolve because a suggested solution for some organizations involved rebooting each computer manually into safe mode, deleting a specific file and then restarting the computer.

While that is a relatively straightforward process, security experts said, it may not be easy to do at scale. Those with organized and well-staffed information technology teams could potentially fix the issues more quickly, Mr. Olejnik said.

Unlike the iPhone software updates that Apple sends to customers, the incident highlighted information technology systems that operate in the background. The CrowdStrike issues were compounded because the software being updated performed critical cybersecurity tasks, giving it access to scan a computer to look for viruses and other malicious attacks.

Cybersecurity tools operate quietly in the background to defend computers against attacks. The software is frequently updated with new defenses as hackers develop fresh methods of attack, but constant updates mean there are many opportunities for mistakes to happen.

“One of the tricky parts of security software is it needs to have absolute privileges over your entire computer in order to do its job,” said Thomas Parenty, a cybersecurity consultant and a former U.S. National Security Agency analyst. “So if there’s something wrong with it, the consequences are vastly greater than if your spreadsheet doesn’t work.”

On Friday, the stock price of CrowdStrike, which reported $3 billion in annual revenue last year, closed down 11 percent.

CrowdStrike’s stock price so far this year

The company faces questions about what liabilities it and other software makers face for major disruptions and cybersecurity incidents. The consequences for significant outages can be so minimal that companies are not motivated to make more fundamental changes, experts said. While a car manufacturer would face stiff penalties for faulty brakes, a software provider can often issue another update and move on.

“Until software companies have to pay a price for faulty products, we will be no safer tomorrow than we are today,” Mr. Parenty said.

Meaghan Tobin , Aaron Krolik and Jill Cowan contributed reporting.

Adam Satariano is a technology correspondent for The Times, based in London. More about Adam Satariano

Paul Mozur is the global technology correspondent for The Times, based in Taipei. Previously he wrote about technology and politics in Asia from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Seoul. More about Paul Mozur

Kate Conger is a technology reporter based in San Francisco. She can be reached at [email protected]. More about Kate Conger

Sheera Frenkel is a reporter based in the San Francisco Bay Area, covering the ways technology impacts everyday lives with a focus on social media companies, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, Telegram and WhatsApp. More about Sheera Frenkel

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Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia: find your dream destination

Three destinations: something for everyone

Diverse cultures, friendly people, idyllic landscapes… Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines all have so much to offer. Check out our guide to find your perfect match!

Cultural towns

A two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, Malacca is a haven of multiculturalism. Located on the trade route for silk and spices, the city has attracted visitors and settlers from all over the world: Portugal, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, China and India. This rich history is reflected in the monuments and cuisine of Malacca.

Indonesia: In the village of Pamulung on Sumbawa Island, the locals are devoted to their traditional way of life, from pounding rice to weaving. One of the most unusual activities, however, is buffalo racing. Used to work the fields since the dawn of time, buffaloes are incredibly powerful animals , ideal for riding through the rice paddies. To win the race, participants have to collect the saka , a special totem sculpted for this event, which is highly prized among the residents of Pamulung.

The Philippines

Heavily influenced by the Spanish settlers who arrived in the 16th century, Manila is often described as a slice of Latin America in Asia. This distinctive flair can be seen in the Casa Manila, which displays furniture from the colonial era, as well as Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church. However, the history of Manila does not begin and end with the Spanish settlers . Contact with India had a major impact on Filipino society from the 10th century onwards, and the country fell under American rule in 1898. During the Second World War, it was occupied by Japan, and Manila was largely destroyed by a bloody battle that claimed 100,000 lives.

A real melting pot, Malaysia is made up of many ethnic groups, with the majority of the population claiming Malay, Chinese or Indian descent. However, the country is also home to several ethnic minorities, including the Mah Meri , also known as the Besisi, the Cellate or the “masked men of Malaysia”. Their ceremonies in traditional costumes and masks are a unique and striking sight.

On the pristine islands of the Alor Archipelago, the Tapkala people go about their lives much as their ancestors did before them, maintaining very little contact with the modern world. Their houses are made from bamboo and coconut leaves, while their clothes are woven by hand or crafted from bark. The Tapakala are especially famous for their mokos , the prehistoric bronze drums that they use in rituals. Many examples are on display at the Museum of a Thousand Mokos in Kalabahi, the archipelago’s main city.

Most of the ethnic groups in the Philippines maintain a very strong, almost mystic relationship with nature . In northern Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines, the Ifugao people cultivate rice terraces that cover the mountains, using ancestral traditions . The terraces are naturally irrigated by the forest springs above. Some 1,500 “anitos” or spirits play precise roles in Ifugao cosmogony with there being an anito for the rain, sun, fishing, war, peace and more. Ifugao women spend many hours weaving traditional outfits featuring specific patterns.

Idyllic beaches

No trip to Malaysia is complete without a visit to Sabah in the north-east of Borneo. Not far from the shore, the island of Sipadan boasts one of the best diving spots in the world. To the north of Kota Kinabalu, the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is an ideal destination for snorkelling enthusiasts, with clear waters and beautiful beaches.

With white sand and turquoise water, Pulau Molana is a real-life picture postcard. This uninhabited island in the Maluku archipelago is protected by coral reefs, letting visitors enjoy a peaceful swim in breathtaking surroundings.

To the south of Sibuyan , the untouched desert island of Cresta de Gallo is a tiny slice of heaven on earth. It is the perfect spot to lie back on the fine sand and take in the views, looking out over the crystal clear water to the distant horizon.

Nature at its wildest

Lose yourself in one of the most impressive old-growth forests in the world, with roots stretching back over 130 million years. In the heart of Taman Negara National Park , this jungle is the ideal place for a tropical hike under the shelter of the treetops some 20–40 metres overhead. It is also known for its canopy walkway, suspended 30 metres above the ground, overlooking a patchwork of a thousand shades of green, where monkeys, hornbills, buffalo and monitor lizards all coexist.

Tanjung Puting National Park is renowned for its incredible beauty and its large orangutan population. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977, covering 355,000 hectares, this park owes much of its success to Canadian primatologist Biruté Galdikas. She arrived in Tanjung Puting in 1971, where she was able to study the primates in situ for several years. Today, 6,000 orangutans live wild in the park, making up the largest population in the world.

In the heart of the Philippines, Sibuyan Island is straight out of an adventure film. Lush foliage covers the landscape, from the deserted beaches to the slopes of Mount Guiting-Guiting , surrounded by forests of burbling streams and birds. Sibuyan is also known as the “Galapagos of Asia” because it is home to so many endemic species.

Incredible destinations

To the south of the Singapore Strait, Penyengat Island is far removed from the modernity of the nearby megalopolis. The seat of the ancient kingdom of Malaysia, this small and peaceful island bears many traces of its glorious past. Penyengat is also famous for its fishing villages on stilts , which represent the heart and soul of the place.

Located in the centre of the Indonesian archipelago, Komodo National Park was added to the UNESCO list of biosphere reserves in 1991. Made up of several volcanic islands, the park was founded to protect its population of around 5,700 Komodo dragons . These giant monitor lizards, which can grow up two to three meters long, are not found anywhere else in the world. This species is a popular area of study for scientists, described by UNESCO as the “last representative of a relic population of large lizards that once lived across Indonesia and Australia”.

To the west of the immense island of Leyte, the “Cuatro Islas” are four tiny patches of paradise in a brilliant blue sea. One of these islands, Himokilan, is known as the jewel of the Philippines thanks to its pale sand and clear water, which forms several natural swimming pools. The rest of the island is covered with dense vegetation, making it the perfect place to embrace your inner Robinson Crusoe!

Photos credit : © iStock ;  © Unspalsh ;  © Ponant

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9 Easiest and Visa-Free Countries to Visit for Filipinos – my ASEAN Travel Tips!

Filipinos tend to associate traveling with having a hard time obtaining visas. But who says you have to get visas before you can venture on a great overseas trip?  Why not start with Philippines’ neighboring countries which would not require a visa?

You’d probably heard of ASEAN over the news, and you might know a little information about it. Well, let me tell you a few more about its members and the benefits we can get as Filipinos.

In 1967, the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) was founded to strengthen regional solidarity and cooperation among member countries and aims to create one of the largest single market economies in the world, promoting the free movement of goods, services, travel, and tourism.

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These ten countries are Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, including the Philippines. They have strong political, financial and cultural ties with each other. But their ties are not just for economic purposes alone. Their connection also aims to boost travel and tourism industry – thus not requiring the citizens of ASEAN countries a visa when traveling to another member country (for a limited number of days).

The only requirements you need: PASSPORT with six months validity, onward or return flight ticket and hotel bookings (or any proof that you have a place to stay).

P.S. Worried about the Philippines Immigration? Here are our tips on how not to get offloaded !

Table of Contents

Here’s the List of all ASEAN countries Philippines Passport Holders Can Visit Visa-Free.

1. brunei darussalam.

Philippine passport holders are allowed to enter Brunei Darussalam for 14 days without the need for entry visas. This is only applicable for tourism purposes.

What to see: The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, is home to the opulent Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque and it’s 29 golden domes. The capital’s massive Istana Nurul Iman palace is the residence of Brunei’s ruling sultan. Other places that are worth visiting are Royal Regalia Museum, Tamu Kianggeh, and strolling at the Waterfront. It is also known for its beaches and biodiversity rainforest protected within reserves.

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2. Cambodia

In Cambodia, citizens from the Philippines and other ASEAN countries are permitted to stay for 21 days. All visitors must hold a passport valid for six months and one empty page.

What to see:  If you are visiting Cambodia, you don’t want to miss going to Phnom Phen (the capital city of Cambodia) because of its rich heritage. In fact, it is a major destination for most tourists. Siem Reap is another popular city where the famous site of Angkor Wat (the world’s largest Hindu temple) is situated. If you are into climbing, then Koh Ker’s 30-meter climb above the plain is something to look forward to. It is located outside of the Siem Reap surrounded by an exotic forest. That’s a lot to look forward to.

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3. Indonesia

Please keep in mind that all Filipino visitors must possess a Philippine passport with at least six months of validity at the time of arrival in Indonesia and a return/ round trip ticket. Imagine yourself diving into the clear water. Surreal!

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If you are a Philippine passport holder, you are allowed to travel to Laos for 30 days. Just make sure that your passport will not expire within six months. You will also need to show your tickets for traveling in and out of Laos. A tourist visa will be issued upon your arrival and is usually good for 15 to 30 days (depending on the itinerary of the tourist) – which may be given at airports, Friendship bridges and border checkpoints between Laos and surrounding countries. Just in case you want to stay longer, you can apply at the Department of Immigration of Laos in Vientiane.

What to see:  If you want to explore the three-tier turquoise waterfalls outside Luang Prabang or visit the thousands of mini wooden Buddhist figures in Pak Ou Caves, then plan your trip to Laos now!

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Transportation Tip: If you’re looking for the cheapest way to book the Trains, Buses, Ferries , Transfers on this route, we use 12Go.Asia to compare the prices!

5. Malaysia

Philippine passport holders can travel to Malaysia without the need for a visa if they will only stay there for one month or 30 days. All they need is a valid Philippine passport. If a Philippine passport holder plans on traveling to Malaysia and will stay there for more than 30 days but less than 59 days, he or she will need to obtain a visa before traveling there. The visa applied for will be free of charge.

A Philippine passport holder will also need a visa if they will travel and stay in Malaysia for 60 days or more. They will have to get a visa with reference (VWR) before their planned travel to Malaysia. Their contacts or host in Malaysia will also have to secure for them a letter of authorization or approval for VWR from the Malaysian Department of Immigration. The original letter of approval will be included in the visa application.

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6. Myanmar (Burma)

Ordinary passport holders from the Philippines can stay in Myanmar without a visa for 14 days, granting Filipinos who are holders of ordinary passports visa-free entry to Myanmar for tourism and business purposes, The Philippines already grants Myanmar nationals a 30-day visa-free privilege under Executive Order 408, which was signed in 1960. The visa exemption deal is seen to boost tourism in Myanmar, a country full of tourist attractions but struggling to lure more visitors.

If you want to visit the Golden Triangle (the borders of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand) or just want to explore Yangon Central Railway Station, then a trip to Myanmar is a must!

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7. Singapore

Philippine passport holders can be issued visas on arrival in Singapore, for stays of up to 30 days, whether for touristic or business purposes. Your Philippine passport should at least have six months validity after the date of intended departure from Singapore. Travelers should also have their confirmed return airline ticket and proofs of sufficient funds for the duration of stay in Singapore. Get ready, Merlion!

What to see:  if you want to explore Singapore’s Civic District from natural views at Merlion Park’s Marina Bay to the impressive Thian Hock Keng Temple, then plan your trip to Singapore, today.

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8. Thailand

The good news is you can stay in Thailand for 30 days at maximum. Visitors can now regularly go to Thailand and stay there within a total of 90 days in a six-month period, again, you are only allowed 30-days maximum on each visit if you will be entering the country via their airport or 14- days if traveling by land. So, plan your trip carefully ahead of time.

What to see:   If you intend to visit the Grand Palace, or The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, or just experience the famous Thai Massage, then book your flight to Thailand, now.

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Filipino citizens are permitted to travel and stay in Vietnam for 21 days or less as tourists. Your passport should be at least valid for six months, and you should have a confirmed return ticket and enough money to cover your expenses for the duration of the stay. A fully accomplished and duly signed Visa application form with one original and recent 2” x 2” photo attached is necessary.

What to see:  If you want to see how did the Americans lose the Vietnam War by exploring Cu Chi Tunnels or if you are a backpacker who wants to visit Pham Ngu Lao Street because of its war memorabilia and other merchandise then go ahead and book your flight to Vietnam!

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The visa-free entry agreement is expected to boost tourism, trade, and investment between the Philippines and all ASEAN countries. Before you go on with your European or World Tour, start with the ASEAN countries first. If you must know, each country has its own culture and heritage that will make you embrace your Asian roots.

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156 thoughts on “ 9 Easiest and Visa-Free Countries to Visit for Filipinos – my ASEAN Travel Tips! ”

this is very interesting experience

i have plan to go in singapore soon with my child

Thank you for good information

Can i stay in Singapore for 30 days without visa?

Can Filipinos get 30 days Visa extension, after an initial stay of 30 days? Thank you for your advice here

Hi i want to travel in malaysia and will stay for 2 weeks or less , im from philipphines what are the requirements needed. And if i have relatives from malaysia any requirements needed.thanks

If I travel to Malaysia for less than a month and proceed to Thailand / Singapore for few days . After come back from Thailand/ Singapore, I can stay in Malysia for another one month ?

hi. I want to travel to Singapore alone.is there really need a hotel booking before my travel?I want to go as a backpacker only.

you need to make a hotel reservation to present at the immigration, you can book in backpacker hostel.

What I need to do so I can travel to Malaysia I’m from philippines.i want to travel in Malaysia

Hi! I am Filipino citizen,and have boyfriend whose the one to pay all the expenses..we are planning to visit to Singapore for 4days. What is requirements for me? Or is it ok that I dont have statement of bank account? Our date plan to go to SG is on Jan.18 to 22. Please do a response as soon as you read my comment. Thanks?

To be extremely careful, If you have an employer, get a letter from them saying you are on vacation within those days. Also if travel with your bf, together that will be better too. I have also heard the immigration in Manila will ask many questions and can bar people from leaving Manila, if you don’t have prior international travel experience and you are traveling alone.

A people living with HIV can enter those countries to visit?

No problem at all

Yes. I went to malaysia, vietnam, cambodia and finally thailand.

Been to south korea lately.

Enjoy life brother!

Which is cheapest among asean countries to travel?

I’m a retired Filipino teacher, I want to go to Singapore, how much travel do I need to go to Singapore?

I’m an India studying in the Philippines, I want to visit Singapore how can I get visa?

My Mum has multiple entry visa to Australia, while she is in Australia can she go with us to visit Singapore for a week? Will it not cause problem to my mother?

As long as she has multiple entry then no problem at all!

Hi Im interested in getting your services very soon

Hello! Im currently working here in saudi arabia, and gusto q magtravel sa korea, japan and china is it possible na makapagtravel ako sa tatlong bansa na to sa loob ng isang buwan?

Yes possible but make sure you’d have enough time to get the visa for each country.

How can get visit visa from Dubai to Singapore

Have you managed to get the visa?

I’m a Filipino working in Saudi Arabia and I’m planning to visit one of these countries or even more. I’ll just go to the airport and i can get the visa for free or there are other requirements? Thank you!

Hi po! Are all your travels on your own? Or did you have a travel agency? I was planning of travelling to Bali, Indonesia and I think you can help. Thanks!

You can hire private car to tour you around bali. try to contact MADE JAYEN BALI (MADE SUSMAYUDIARTA in facebook. He was my tour guide back then. Enjoy Bali!

Peru. Tried it.

I would love to visit Vietnam during winter.

Hello if i will travel going to malaysia to meet somebody can i use his hotel accomodation as mine too?

Filipinos going to tour for a day in South Korea. Is Visa required

Yes, visa is required.

Hi I have some questions I plan to visit Thailand wat is the requirements? My boyfriend Aussie will be in Thailand and he want me to stay in Thailand for one month do you think it possible to make easy to go in Thailand even I don’t have work.

As long as you have a Philippine passport which remains valid to up to 3 mos. youre good to go.

6 months minimum validity of passport for all countries if Filipino . The airline will not allow you to travel if less than 6 months

Hello po. Me too have questions. My Russian friend will be going to Phuket, and he wants me to stay with him there. I have a phil.passport still valid. Do i need a bank account or sufficient funds? he will book a round-trip ticket for me then we will stay on same hotel. Is it good to go?

Hello po, tanong kulang maam/sir nandito po ako ngayon sa armenia balak kung magpunta sa hongkong for vcation ano po ba ang kaylangan document na ipakita? Salamat po!

is it allowed to cross vietnam-laos-cambodia-thailand for just one week??

Everything is allowed.. maybe the question is, will it be doable? YEs, you can do it but you won’t enjoy it!

nabasa ko mga comment dito at magaganda lahat. naisipan ko lng din magbasa dahil baka before mag end ang 2019 makapunta ako ng Malaysia Singapore and India.

Hi im filipina dito po ako s surabaya indonesia .my fiancee is working here.Pwede ba ako mag apply ng social tourist visa para i can stay longer than 30days here.

Dear Kach, As first timer to tour singapore, is it a requirement at our immigration to present bank statement to show sufficient fund while in the country for say 1 week? What other requirements normally asked by our immigration officer at NAIA? Thanks

No need to present the bank statement account. Kakauwi ko palang from singapore. And first time lang din namin magtravel dun. Di naman kami hinanapan ng bank statement account. Ang iready mo lang is yung hotel na tutuluyan, passport and ticket.

I am a Philipine passport holder,I really wanted to go Europe but really it’s hard to apply Visa even though tourist?

Read our articles here to help you! https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/tourist-visa-guide-filipino

hello po, pupunta po ako sa vietnam ngayong june for 12 days pero 10 po muna kmi magstay dun tapos punta po kmi ng cambodia for 4 day ska po babalik ulit kmi ng 2 days sa vietnam. Pwede p din po b akong mkapasok ng vietnam for free kasi po npabook n ung ticket ko vietnam to cambodia to vietnam again pwede po kaya yun na free visa p din po ako oh need ko ng kumuha ng visa?

Hi mam…im going to india but i get off load…can i go another country’..thts my first time..or if pwd kita tawag sa iyo..

Hi! How much do I need to bring to travel Singapore? If I will stay there for 2 weeks?

Hi po. Ask ko lang po sana do I need to have a visa for traveling to hongkong from the Philippines?Thank you!

Hello po. ask ko lang kung kakailanganin ko pa po bang kumuha ng visa papuntang Thailand. Manggagling po ako ng UAE

Ms. Kach aside from Asian countries what other countries no need visa when travelling. Can I ask you pms?

South America! https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/crossing-borders-south-america-peru-bolivia-uruguay-brazil-chile/

My 2 children are going with me this april to malaysia. May chance kya ma offload kmi wala kmi invitation letter, from my common law husband, who is working there. And duon kmi mg stay for 25 days sa staff house nila instead n mg hotel kmi.

As a Philippine passport holder we are given a 21 days visa to enter Cambodia right? My question is instead of the normal 21 days stamp on the Philippine passport is it possible to request upon arrival for the Cambodian “ordinary” visas (E class) which allows a foreigner to stay 1, 3 or even 6 months. Thank you

Nope, not possible. You need to get that visa in advance at the Embassy.

Kailangan po ba ng show money? At sa immigration ano po sasabihin dun?

Anu po bang requirements papuntang taiwan? Hindi napasama sa free visa..

Hi po..need pa bh exit clearance xa malaysia?paanu bh mgpa book ng hotel accomodation?

You can read here – https://mrandmrshowe.com/lifestyle-blog/hotel-booking-reservation-schengen-visa-application

Hi po my fiance ako pupunta sana dito sa Pinas.dahil gusto Dito kmi Ikakasal sa pinas bale Pakistani po siya Muslim ako Christian. Anu po requirements ang kailangan nya madali sa immigration natin dito sa pinas wala po ba problem?

Hi good good morning how to apply tourist visa in macau? how many cost i got to have a visa?

Philippine Citizens can go to Macau with passport valid 60 days. A visa is not required

HI Kach. I’m looking at staying in Thailand for at least 6 months. Would you know the recommended process for this to happen? Thanks in advance.

Does anyone know if there is a limit on how many times the Asean visa privelege can be used in a year? That is, if I were to be near the border of Thailand and Malaysia, for example, could I just go back and forth until my passport is full, or is there a limit? Thanks!

Hi! Thanks for your informative blogs, esp. this one! I aim to teach English for 3-5 yrs in either Asia or Latin America, ( Singapore, Taiwan or Thailand) /(Colombia/Peru, etc.). I highly prefer the first one, but I’m confused how to pursue for I’d need to bring my mom, as soon as possible with me (my only dependent). Any idea at which country/countries are they allowing a constant exit to a nearby country and re-entry (within our allowed visa-free period)? So I could have my mom join me in a tourist visa while I couldn’t petition her yet? Your idea/advice would be highly appreciated-thanks!

Pwede po ba makapunta sa hongkong for one week free visa?From philippines. ano po complete requirements at ano po needed na d maooffload sa philippine immigration po.needed po ba show money or bank statement?

Hi, The article sums-up nicely, covered good info about visa. If any of you wish to migrate to singapore and need any sort of help related to visa do visit our website. Thanks in advance.

Hi, what is your website? Mind giving a link?

Hi Kach thanks for sharing us your knowledge..it’s very imformative..

Let me know the best countries to travel in Europe and America that no visa needed..that may stamped upon arrival…

Huh? Vietnam already requires “fully accomplished and duly signed Visa application form with one original and recent 2” x 2” photo attached” for Filipinos traveling in the country for 21 days or less?

this is my question too. we will be visiting Vietnam this December though…

Just recently travelled Vietnam last month and they never required visa there for us Filipinos as tourists. 🙂

No, recently, Vietnam don’t even require an arrival card. Just your Philippine Passport. 🙂

I want Philippines to India visa.sir halp me

well exatly what they do any say, it so nice with a enormous life style and exciting things.

Hello! Do we need a visa to Panama? How to apply po? Thank you!

Yes you need it. Contact the nearest Panamanian embassy!

Hi poh utatanong ko lng poh sana kung kelangan poh b mg apply ako to stay for 2 days ng visa for transit from saudi to malaysia.then malaysia to philippine?

Kelangan po ba ng statement of account kung pupunta ng singapore? Or any proof of funds? Pano kung wala kang bank account?thanks

no need for bank account po. ph immigration and sg immigration will not ask about how much money do u have.

no need, just passport and plane ticket.

Hi, Im going to travel via Cebu to singapore by plane then singapore to malaysia to thailand by land then Thailand to manila by plane di po ba ako makakaproblema sa immigration?

Hi, i would like to ask if do i need to get a visa to go in Indonesia? what things should i prepare too. I am planning to visit Bali, anytime soon. Thank you

No need visa..just return ticket.hotel.booking n extra money.

Hello po ask ko lang po if mag travel po ako sa singapore in 2weeks from Philippines visa free po ba?

Ano po bang bansa ang madali lang ang proseso ng kasal, walang visa para sa Pilipino and US citizen. At mura lang para sa buong pamilya? Thanks po. Sana po matulungan n’yo po ako na masagot ang aking katanungan.

Plano namin mag pakasal sana sa Thailand kasama ang pamilya lang. Kailangan pa ba ng Show money? Ano ano po ba ang mga kakailanganin na papers Para sa pagbyahe? Thanks! God bless!

going to costa rica for a week need ba po visa and hotel accommodation?

free visa but yes you need a hotel accommodation and onward flight ticket.

Hi Miss Kash plan to go to Singapore for 4days & 3nights, visa-free po diba?. Tanong ko lng po ano po need po ba ng show money, proof of accomodation and proof of ticket roundtrip?. Ano po ba need pagdating dun. Thanks po.

I’m always visiting Singapore every year and even spent 18 days as a backpacker so I learn Singapore the way Singaporean do. It was easy. Visa upon arrival that a huge factor, but you must show your return ticket or an onward ticket/boarding pass & you must indicate where you want to stay in Singapore. Meaning writes the exact/complete address of the hotel or the apartment wherever you want to stay on the immigration card; however, needless to show your hotel confirmation. They will take your words for it. This will be checked after scanning your passport. “Show money” is not required unless you present yourself at the counter like a homeless person. SG immigration is very efficient, if nothing pops up on their criminal records, you will pass the counter in less than 40 seconds. The in and out of Singapore is the easiest airport I’ve ever been.

Hi! I’m eyeing on teaching English for 3-5yrs in SG. My main concern is I’d need to bring my mom with me (my only dependent), as soon as possible. I’ve read online about their strict requirements on a high salary esp. for a singler person like me . Honestly it seemed close to impossible, at this time. Since we’re allowed 30days currently..will it be possible for my mom to exit to nearby countries and re-enter SG each time? Or is it true that SG is already strict too on this “technique”? Or at least, how many times may we re-enter under Tourist visa? (my concern is my momy, she’s a Senior Citizen and is no longer working). Will highly appreciate your insights-thanks!

U need return ticket n hotel.booking.no show.money.but u.must hv extra money…singapore is expensive all n everything..be ready ur pocket for that.

Hi I find your blog ery informaive. I have a queation. I am planning to travel in asia with my son and a companion for at least 2 months for a vacation. What countriea would you recommend if from phils to another country to another country or countries then return back to phils from the last country that we visited instead of returning back to the first country we visited? Or does it require that we need to return back phils before we can depart and visit another country? Will appreciate your response. Than you in advance!

I recommend you to go to Hong Kong for 2 days then Macau by Ferry for 2 days then fly to Hanoi Vietnam or Vientiane Laos. From Vientiane, you can go to Bankok Thailand by bus or plane. Then go to Malaysia by train or plane. Then Malaysia to the Philippines. All countries are visa-free.

Hi my husband is from Dominican Republic but a green card holder, we are planning to go to Philippines do we need to get him a visa, if so how long does that usually take, pls advise thank u

Hello Glenda, he doesn’t need a visa and can stay in the Philippines for up to a year.. read here – https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/one-year-visa-free-balikbayan-stay-philippines-filipino-spouse/

Hi maam ask ko lng po mag torrist po ako for 1 week s malaysia ano po b ang kailangan n mga requirments dto s immigration ng pinas? Thanks

i’m from Uganda and i have Uganda passport holder so is it visa free to Philippine or not, please answer. Thanks

no need for visa to philippines

hi im from india and i want to visit philipines so do i need visa ? as per i consult with embassy and check philipines embassy website i need visa for enter philipines so just kindly clear my doubt answer me

yes you need visa to visit Philippines. Thanks

You can inquire at our Philippine embassy there in Uganda. I believe you need visa to go to Philippines

My name is JOHNPAUL, from Uganda. do i need visa to visit Philippine, please reply. Thanks

yes you need visa to Philippines. You can inquire at our Philippine Embassy there in Uganda.

Question lang. Planing to go in Singapore on June30 pero may mag sponsor sakin which is not local tourist lang din. Paano yung requirements for visa? Mag stay lang ako for 2 days. Thanks.

visa free po. kaylangan lang return ticket at hotel accommodation.

Hi po! Im going to singapore this june 28. Im worried about the visa thing, saan ko po ba yon makukuha?

Visa on arrival lang po. basta may fifill-upan kayong form na ibibigay sa plane. Yun ang ipapakita nyo sa immigration ng singapore. itago nyo lang lahat ng papel. wag nyong iwawala.

Hi there.. ask lang ako if you have any info regarding tourists restrictions in malaysia. Non muslim ako and will meet my muslim bf in KL next month.. is it prohibited for us to stay in one hotel room? Should we have separate room bookings? Any info is much appreciated.. thanks

Wag mo n.lng sabihin s immig s pinas n go ka malaysia to.met up.ur bf..bka m.offload ka…dami nila ask….no worry nmn n.mg hotel kyo in 1 room..un.lng.minsan.my checking at muslim.country to.pg.ngktaon…ma question kyo .but its rare to happen.im.sure ur bf put u in safe place..good luck.

Need po ba ang travel unsurance maam? Please reply.

anu po ba ibang country pwede pang puntahan aside sa asean country na madali lang ang visa. salamat po sa reply.

Your blog is very informative…thanks

hi mam,tanung lng po ak,andto ak sa hk now plan kopa stop over ng kota kinabalu malaysia 4nights nd 5days lng ak dun,passport ko my working visa dto hk,kumbaga tickt ko roundtrip na pabalik dto hk,stop over lng ak dun tpos manla nku after 5days dun,tanong kopo need pba ng invitation letter sa frnd ko dun or supporting letter sa amo ko dto hk?at need ba show money?

No need na po mam.

Hi po! plan to travel to SEA (Vietnam-Cambodia-Thailand) nabasa ko sa blog po ninyo (for Vietnam) “A fully accomplished and duly signed Visa application form with one original and recent 2” x 2” photo attached is necessary.”

need po ba ng VISA?

Hi ma. Kach.. Your site is very informative po. My question po sana ako. If i have a tourist vusa going to canada but i have a layover at LAX fir 7hrs. Po pwede ba ako lumabas ng airport to see some places po dont if i am holding a philippine passport hibdi ba ako masisista? Or i have just have to stay on the airport po? Thank you very much. For your respond. Have a great day po.

You will be required a transit visa to USA kahit sa airport ka lang. Required sya!

Tanong ko lang po.gusto ko sanang mag travel sa gambia..anu po mga requirements? Need po ba ng visa at bank account?

Hi po…egyptian po b need p ng visa papunta pinas nsa kuwait po xa

Yes po. need ng Visa. Inquire na lang po siya sa Philippine embassy natin doon.

Mam/ Sir, gusto ko rin makita ung Holy Land sa Israel ano ang requirement para makapunta ako. May hipag at pamangkin ng asawa ko dun na nagtwowork. Free visa po rin ba?

Klangan po ba ng invitation letter from my friend if mg tourist me sa Malaysia good for 1 month lang ? Thanks po…

An invitation letter is not necessary if you will visit Malaysia as a tourist. A maximum of thirty day stay is an auto grant for Philippine passport holder.

good day, i am travelling to india through singapore, and it is said on my plane ticket that i need to have a transit visa, any idea of how to get it po?

are you PHL Passport holder? It’s visa-free.

Hi po ma’am Kach! Need pa po bo ba ng visa pag mag tourist sa Morocco? Ano pa po ang mga requirements ang dpat dalhin kung dadaan pa sa immigration?

PAG CHINA PO BA NEED PA VISA? ANO PO DPAT REQ AT PAANO IPAPAPROCESS

Hi missCath, how much the plane ticket from Philippines to Guadalajara, Mexico and how to get Visa Po….

HI, IM PLANNING TO GO FROM THAILAND TO AMBODIA VIA LAND. WALA NA BANG KELANGAN NA VISA ? THANKS LOTS!

Wala.. visa-free for Filipinos and you dont have to pay anything.

Hi po, can you suggest two countries that visa free for first timers? Thanks!

You can do Singapore – Malaysia or Thailand-Cambodia!

All of the countries on the list above are visa-free but if you want an easier trip then do Thailand-Cambodia or Singapore-Malaysia

Visa po yon na po ba ang passport?kahit walang passport?pwd maka travel sa said country?

Hindi ka makakalabas ng Pilipinas kung wala kang passport.

ma’am. And sir ask if the California countey need the visa for vacation?

yes, you need to get USA tourist visa. California is a State of America.

I understand that i can visit vietnam without visa provided i stay for less than 20 days and i have a two way ticket, is my understanding correct? Therefore what other requirements do i have to bring aside from the two way ticket and a passport? Thank you

hello po! been two monkey follower since started travel lifestyle. back in pinas na po. saving for jeju. hehe. ask ko po if i buy ticket manila to jeju no need visa ? some information say jeju is visa free for pinoys? i dont have korean visa yet. but i see all flights stopover or layover seoul before going jeju? but seoul needs visa. but internet says 72 hrs transit no need for visa? if i buy mnl to jeju(layover incheon) roundtrip, no need korean visa na po? pingers and legs crossed! waiting on cliff for answer!

Hi mag ask lng ako if from Barcelona spain going to Singapore for tour wala bang magiging problem sa Phillipine passport holder?ano po ang requirements need po ba ng show money?salamat po.

Walang problem.

Asked kulang po sana if im going to Singapore as a tourist need po ba yung visa? And how long to stay in Singapore if once your filipino?thanks

as a holder of a Philippine passport living in Europe, {Spain}, do I need a visa to visit the U.K?

Even if you have residency in Schengen, you still need to get a visa for the UK.

Ask koh lng poh need bah ng visa papunta malaysia for tourist just for 4days or 7days???asap

No need, ASEAN po sya so visa-free for Filipinos. You only need a flight ticket and proof of accommodation.

hello po.ask ko lang po san po pwede magtravel na walang visa na near lang din sa north america po.nadeny kasi ang application ko ng visitor visa sa canada po .at magkano dapat ang bank statement pagnagtravel tanungin po ba ng immigration po.

You can go sa Costa Rica po! Walang bank statement requirements, yung kelangan lang is yung itinerary and return flight tickets! =)

Hi Kach! Your blog is very informative and interesting, really love it! I’m checking for my next travel and suddenly just clicked on twomonkeystravel..its was big help. Love to travel also hehehe!Take care

Informative blog. These are really nice tips to follow. Thanks for sharing such a impressive article with us.

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Take off in style: simple flight booking & entertainment, madrid: why this city is so worth visiting, top places to visit to see penguins in their natural habitat, unveiling the perks of flight deal aggregators: are you getting the most out of your travel budget, related posts, my dream trip to mongolia : a perfect 7-day gobi desert itinerary, 10 best things to do in koh pha ngan, thailand [with suggested tours], japan travel guide: 25 day trips that you can do in japan, is israel visa free for filipinos requirements and guide to visa extension in israel, previous post, how to get a schengen visa in qatar (residents in qatar), usa b2 tourist visa applications – 20 consul interview questions you could be asked and how best to answer them, subscribe to our newsletter.

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