Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled the top visa-free destinations frequented by Filipino travelers, highlighting the ease of travel within regions where visa requirements are waived. Based on recent booking data, the most popular destinations include Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Taipei, and Kuala Lumpur.
These five destinations stood out among the 69 visa-free countries that Filipinos have access to as listed by the Henley Passport Index.
With direct flights available from several cities in the Philippines and shorter flight durations, traveling to these cities are relatively convenient for Filipinos. Additionally, a variety of price points for accommodations and flights cater to budget-conscious tourists, making travel more economical. Familiarity with the destinations’ key attractions and activities, such as Hong Kong’s Disneyland, Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Taipei’s Night Markets, and Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Towers, also contribute to their popularity, ensuring travelers have a “must-try” list even before they arrive.
Mike Hwang, Country Director for the Philippines at Agoda, shared, “Hong Kong and Singapore are favorites among Filipino travelers for their seamless accessibility and abundant attractions. Our aim is to continually provide reliable holiday offerings and end-to-end travel booking services to a range of destinations to meet the diverse interests and desires of travelers, whether they’re seeking urban excitement or exploring new, visa-free destinations.”
For those keen to explore beyond the well-trodden paths, Agoda highlights five alternative and less-traveled visa-free destinations, known for their distinctive charm:
Nantou, Taiwan
Offering a respite from the bustling cityscape, Nantou in Taiwan is a natural wonderland. It’s home to the picturesque Sun Moon Lake, the architectural marvel Shuanglong Rainbow Suspension Bridge, and provides an opportunity to delve into the heart of Taiwanese tea culture, making it a serene alternative to Taipei’s urban buzz.
Penang, Malaysia
Malaysia’s Penang beckons with its historical allure, famous street food, and unique art scene. A different experience from Kuala Lumpur’s modern glitz, it is a haven for culture enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Krabi, Thailand
Those looking to swap the lively streets of Bangkok for white sandy beaches will find solace in Krabi, Thailand. This maritime paradise boasts pristine coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and a more relaxed pace of life. With terrific flight connectivity to boot!
Maldives
A tropical haven of idyllic atolls and luxurious resorts, the Maldives is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering unmatched tranquility and natural beauty.
Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
Night markets and opulent mosques define Brunei’s capital, with its name translating to “City of the Blessed One”. Bandar Seri Begawan, known to locals simply as Bandar or “The City”, balances being the center of the nation’s commerce while showcasing its rich heritage and cultural identity. This remarkable city presents a different dynamic from its regional counterparts and offers a great way to immerse in the unique Bruneian culture and history.
While the top destinations remain popular with Filipinos, exploring alternative locations presents opportunities for discovery and relaxation amid natural wonders and culturally rich environments. In addition to over four million holiday properties, the Agoda platform also offers over 130,000 flight routes and thousands of activities that can be packaged together for convenient booking—ideal for those looking to embark on an exploratory journey to one of these fulfilling visa-waived destinations for Filipino travelers.
