It’s truly more fun in the Philippines, most especially during Christmas and New Year’s! Where else in the world can you find a three-month-long celebration? This starts in September or the beginning of the – ber months, as most households and establishments set up festive decorations and play Yuletide songs on repeat. The weeks leading to Christmas day are filled with parties, reunions, exchange gifts, and lots of delicious Filipino meals and desserts served at the table. There’s no place like home during Christmas, however, there are also top holiday destinations in the Philippines that you can consider the best place for your next Christmas vacation.
Speaking of gift-giving, it is not only limited to choosing the right gift for other people, instead, you should also give yourself one or think about it as a gift for the whole family. Spend your hard-earned money on a gift that keeps on giving, specifically a house investment that can give peace of mind and long-term security for you and your family in the generations to come. Celebrate with the joy and warmth of your family and friend’s company in your own Bria Homes house and lot or condominium. With Bria, the fastest-growing Mass Housing Developer in the Philippines, you can choose from high-quality and affordable house and lot packages and vertical villages that are secured and near prime establishments.
The holiday season is also your opportunity to get a few days off from work, spend time with your loved ones, and tick off places on your bucket list. If you’re planning to organize a holiday getaway, you’re in the right place! Here is a rundown of the top holiday destinations in the Philippines, known for showcasing the country’s rich culture and tradition as well as taking pride in events, attractions, and the cool December weather. You might find one or all these as your next best place for a Christmas vacation in the Philippines.
- Pampanga
First on the list is the province known for being the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.” Also, the capital town of San Fernando, Pampanga refers to as the “Christmas Lantern (Parol) Capital of the Philippines.” This is a haven for tourists who wants to get a sight of the best lanterns made by locals and to witness the Giant Lantern Festival or Ligligan Parul. This festival started in 1908 and is celebrated annually, wherein barangays compete for the title of being the “best lantern makers” and parade giant colorful lanterns accompanied by a lively street dance.
Apart from this festive event, there is more to see and do in Pampanga if you’re up for an old-school celebration. You might want to enjoy local Kapampangan food while strolling around the city and exploring other attractions, such as Sandbox, Dinosaurs Island, Nayong Pilipino, Puning Hot Springs, Pradera Verde, Sinagtala Farm Resort, or a Mt. Pinatubo hiking trip.
In case you are wanting to invest in real estate in Pampanga, Bria Homes have housing projects at Empresa San Fernando and Magalang. The former is located at Fatima St., Brgy. Calulut, San Fernando, Pampanga. The beautifully designed houses are placed near convenient locations, including schools, hospitals, places of worship, etc. Meanwhile, the latter is a 29-hectare project located at Brgy. Sto. Rosario, Magalang, Pampanga. You can buy a house and lot in one of the top locations in the country for as low as Php 10,000 per month.
- Baguio
The “Summer Capital of the Philippines” is also a go-to place for many Filipino families during Christmas time. People would travel for more than six hours because the place captures the spirit of the season with the cool breeze, tall pine trees, and lively night markets filled with lanterns and lights. A trip to the City of Pines would not be complete without visiting popular tourist destinations, like Mines View Park, Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, Botanical Garden, Woodcarver’s Village, and Tam-awan Village. Add more experiences to your Baguio itinerary with the nearby Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, BenCab Museum, and the annual Christmas Village in Baguio Country Club. Spend a fun-filled holiday away from the heat and humidity of the metro by heading up north and wearing your #ootd winter outfits even if it doesn’t snow.
- Tagaytay City, Cavite
If you don’t have the luxury of time and budget to go to Baguio or are not a fan of long drives, Tagaytay is the best place for your Christmas vacation! It’s only 2 or 3 hours away from Manila and just like Baguio, the cool breeze in the air will welcome you and make you feel at home away from home. You wouldn’t want to miss the breathtaking view of Taal Volcano, unleash your inner child at Sky Ranch amusement park, and reconnect with nature at Picnic Grove. Satisfy your cravings by dropping by local cafes to drink coffee or hot cocoa and slurp a hot soup of Bulalo (beef marrow stew) at the best restaurant in town. Close your holiday trip down the South by checking out pasalubong (souvenir) shops and take home buko (coconut) pie and other Tagaytay delicacies.
- Ilocos Norte
The Ilocos Region is home to three UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Sites, including the well-preserved town of Vigan. This province is an all-year-round destination with a mix of history, food, interesting attractions, and unique experiences. Travel back in time this Christmas and marvel at the cultural beauty of the Spanish-era streets, particularly the famous Calle Crisologo. Eat empanada with Sukang Ikolo, ride horse-drawn carriages, and visit age-old churches while you’re there. You can also opt to eat at old-school-style restaurants for an authentic feel and a sense of Spanish nostalgia. Other places to visit include Malacañang of the North, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, Paoay Sand Dunes, Pagudpud, and Paoay Church, among others.
- Boracay Island
Unlike the destinations mentioned above, Boracay is for people who like to have Christmas festivities without the cold weather. Being a world-famous and top beach destination in the country, Boracay is not only perfect during the summer, but it is also a big hit during the holiday season. Not only do you enjoy the fine white sand and clear waters, but also part of the reason Christmas is extra special on the island is because of the religious traditions vibrantly celebrated here. You can attend the Simbang Gabi or nine-day church masses and afterward, indulge in delicious rice cakes, like bibingka and puto bumbong. For Christmas Eve dinner, you can dine at restaurants with festive food selections, candlelit tables by the beach, and experience the nightlife at bars or clubs that host themed parties.
These are the five best places for a Christmas vacation in the Philippines and it’s entirely up to you whether to spend it at your Bria Homes residential community or book your next adventure for a quick trip. Out of all the Philippine holidays, Christmas is the one Filipinos look forward to the most. Make your Christmas more memorable by engaging in tours and activities you haven’t tried before, design your homes to fill them with the Yuletide spirit, and learn how to cook or find out where to buy the best Filipino foods to feast on. Most importantly, remember that the destination, location, or gift you receive is not that important, as compared to the time you get to spend with friends, family, and people you care for.
Written by Gianne D. Inumerable
