Where would you take a foreign guest around the country?

The Philippines is so beautiful that whenever we have foreign guests I find it hard to decide where to take them. Social media has also been a big help for all of us to share the lovely places we’ve visited in our country; at the same time it is through social media that we can get ideas on where we can possibly go with friends and family! Need more tips and suggestions on where to bring our foreign guests? Friends share places you can possibly take them!

Vanessa Pastor Ledesma, co-founder, Mercato Centrale Group

I love Amanpulo. Everything is romantic, tranquil and beautiful in Amanpulo. Even getting bored is romantic in Amanpulo.

Secretary Julia Abad, Presidential Management Staff

Batanes! Because it’s beautiful and untouched and the best place to do whatever it is you feel like doing at that particular moment that you happen to be there.

Claude Tayag, artist/chef/columnist

Since I’m based in Pampanga, it’s definitely a drive all the way to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Driving to the north, especially with the SCTEX and TPLEX in operation, is such a pleasant and enjoyable ride. There’s so much beauty in our countryside, so many local delicacies and excellent eateries along the way (read our Linamnam book); so many historical places to visit; so many world-class hotels/resorts to choose from (Sitio Remedios in Currimao comes to mind); baskets and hand-woven textiles galore; and as a final destination, probably the best pristine beach in the country, Saud in Pagudpud.

Tina Montinola Gonzalez, AVP for marketing, SM Home

I would take my foreign guests to Makati City Hall to show them what a world-class, billion-peso parking lot looks like! No, seriously, I would probably take them on a tour of Intramuros, a haven of history and culture, something that proudly attests to our rich heritage. Then take them to eat at Manila Hotel, a place with historical significance and Old World charm.

Rolabel Orosa Vizmonte, space planner

I would take them to our little happy place in Matuod, Lian, Batangas. The drive going to the south is very scenic and introduces charming rural areas of our country. Our place is by the beachfront, where it is so relaxing to hear the waves lapping on the shoreline. It is also where the sun sets every day.  Sunsets never get old. Various colors and hues play up the skies as only a true master could create.  My husband would normally take our guest mountain biking on a trail that overlooks the cove; run along the road, which is right beside sugarcane fields or we could all take a stroll on the sand bars during low tide to get a closer look at the sun as it dips into the ocean. All this refreshes the spirit and the soul, and can make you truly grateful for simple pleasures.

Malou Romero, president/creative director, Joanique

If I were to bring foreign guests in the country I would probably take them first to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan so they can have a taste of Philippine culture. It is an open museum where they can see a lot of heritage houses and historical  architecture that were disassembled brick by brick and restored. I would also take them to Palawan. When it comes to island-hopping and beach life nothing beats Palawan. One of the world’s most beautifully preserved Edens, it’s a naturally rich region that has abundant forests and fishing. The best and freshest seafood you will ever find, and one of the most relaxing places on earth. 

Rina Go, president, NICS

I would take my guest to Tagaytay. The view of the lake within a volcano within a lake is breathtaking. I’ve never seen anything like it.  On a clear day you cannot distinguish where the lake ends and the blue sky begins. The trip is comfortable and just an hour from Manila. Because of its high altitude, the cool climate and fresh air is revitalizing to anyone. It’s truly a masterpiece from God.

Xeng Zulueta, makeup artist

I would take him around Intramuros, Salcedo Village and Legazpi Village. Intramuros because it is so rich in texture and Philippine history. Salcedo and Legazpi because those are my neighborhoods and each offers something unique to both locals and foreigners. Outside Manila, Boracay is always a sure hit.

Anthony Yupangco, chef, businessman

I would organize a culinary experience for them like I had recently in Cavite during a heritage tour, and then take them to Taal province in Batangas where we can stay overnight in one of the newly restored old houses that were converted to B&Bs, along with a city tour. For me, this is the best way to familiarize them with both Philippine culture and our historical background.