With 82 provinces and over 7,000 islands, there are plenty of destinations in the Philippines. From the highlands to white sand beaches and surfing spots, there’s a destination that suits every type of traveler seeking a memorable vacation. The Philippines has plenty of underrated places to discover, but most tourists keep returning to the same handful of destinations. That’s why one Reddit discussion went into which popular PH destinations aren’t worth visiting anymore. While we don’t necessarily agree with these opinions, we have some tips for travelers who still want to visit these places. Take a look:

Baguio

With the opening of TPLEX, the 8-hour drive to Baguio has now been reduced to four to five hours. However, the traffic is just bad when you reach the city, especially during the weekends or on holidays.

8List Tips:

• Visit Baguio on a weekday
• Find good ukay deals at Baguio Public Market
• Book a stay in the heart of the city where popular destinations are walkable

Metro Manila

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With the advent of online shopping, many users noted that going to the metro nowadays is mainly for work or having better shopping and dining choices than in provinces.

But one user shared they appreciate Metro Manila more for destinations like Binondo, Intramuros, and Makati where you’ll find museums, restaurants, and cafes.

8List Tips: 

• Go on a bamboo bike tour around Intramuros
• Take a night tour in Intramuros and learn spooky stories
• Visit free museums

Puerto Galera

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Suppose you head to White Beach, where the shore is lined with restaurants and shops. However, other users shared that Puerto Galera has some of the best diving spots in the country, so that’s something to consider if you’re looking to explore vibrant marine life near the metro.

8List Tips: 

• Go hiking or trekking at Mt. Malasimbo
• Visit diving sites in Sabang Beach

Tagaytay

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Why? The traffic is so awful, but tourists remain patient. Have you heard of people lining up for hours to experience the newly-opened Starbucks Reserve? Will you do the same? Another user shares that visiting Tagaytay was more pleasant in the late 90s to early 2000s. Now, the city has become dense with various developments and dining options are pretty much the same.

8List Tips: 

• Visit lesser-known cafes and restaurants
• Instead of going to franchises, discover locally-owned cafes
• Drive to Tagaytay on a weekday

Vigan

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Is Vigan still worth the 8+ hour drive to see a street with preserved heritage houses? Some also suggest that Vigan is only worth it as a stop on the way to farther northern locations like Pagudpud.

8List Tips: 

• Eat your way around the city and go on a food tour
• Visit Calle Crisologo in the early hours of dawn for ~aesthetic~ and empty street shots

San Juan, La Union

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Just four hours away, La Union is a popular beach destination for nightlife and good food. It’s also easily accessible when you’re commuting, making it a favorite for short weekend trips. However, it might not be for those who want a quieter beach destination.

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Even in other tourist destinations, avoid littering!

8List Tips: 

• Follow this local-approved Elyu guide on places to go
• Try your hands at pottery

Puerto Princesa

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Puerto Princesa is the gateway to other popular destinations in Palawan, such as El Nido and San Vicente. But what else is there to see around the city besides the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or Underground River?

8List Tips: 

• Book a stay at Hue Hotels
• Go firefly watching
• Try authentic chaolong
• Discover craft beer at Palaweno Brewery

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This article was republished with permission from Windowseat.ph. Minor edits have been made for 8List.ph.