So many places, so little time. But, for many, concerns about how to travel without spending a fortune are always top of mind. If you’re looking to save money (and who isn’t?), you’re in luck. Cheapflights.com.ph has crunched the numbers to bring you 10 places where airfare is down significantly (20 percent or more) compared with last year.
From Indonesia to the Maldives, here are the 10 places to go where prices are down for Filipino travelers. And, when you’re ready to search for flights, Cheapflights.com.ph can help with that, too.
Bandung, Indonesia — Average airfare down 47% over last year
Already a favorite weekend getaway for people living in Jakarta, there are many things you can see and do in the capital of West Java, aside from basking in its cool climate. Aside from visiting its numerous museums and galleries, Kawah Putih, a stunning crater lake in a volcanic crater situated some 50 kilometers south of the city center, is also a must see.
Gold Coast, Australia — Average airfare down 48% over last year
With 30 beaches to its name (Main Beach, Surfer’s Paradise, Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach among the most popular), Australia’s Gold Coast is famous for its endless sunshine, sand and surf breaks. Aside from the beach, the town is also famous for its numerous theme parks such as WhiteWater World, Dreamworld, Sea World, Wet ‘n’ Wild and Warner Bros. Movie World.
Male, Maldives — Average airfare down 36% over last year
When people think about Maldives, they may think luxury travel. However, you can do the Maldives on a budget. Instead of spending a lot to stay at the luxury beach resorts, stay in the capital, Male. You can still spend time on the beach and take half- or full-day trips to local islands, but you’ll also have the opportunity to experience the local culture. Be sure to shop local markets and visit the Friday Mosque, known for its golden dome.
Doha, Qatar — Average airfare down 46% over last year
As the capital of one of the richest countries in the world, Doha is always evolving. With new places, restaurants and skyscrapers adding to its already incredible skyline, it’s being touted as the new Dubai. But apart from its forward-thinking attitude, this travel destination never fails to look back and honor its past with the preservation of its culture and heritage at sites such as the Al Koot Fort, which was built during the Ottoman period, the Clock Tower, a traditional Qatari village and the famous Souq Wafiq, which is always worth a visit. And, with airfare down 46 percent compared with last year, now is a great time to go.
United Arab Emirates (Dubai — average airfare down 37% over last year and Abu Dhabi — average airfare down 21% over last year)
In Dubai, travelers can check out the view from the Burj Khalifa and enjoy the marina, souks, shopping malls and water parks. Meanwhile, in neighboring Abu Dhabi, travelers can set their sights on awe-inspiring sites such as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Capital Gate and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
Taipei, Taiwan — Average airfare down 35% over last year
Less than a two-hour flight from Manila, Taiwan is a popular destination for Filipino travelers. It may be small but there are so many things to see and do in and around its capital city. Be sure to catch the views from Taipei 101 and try the street food. Although the implementation of visa-free entry has been postponed until Sept. 2017, relaxed visa requirements put in place last October allows visa-free entry to Filipinos who have been issued visas to enter Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, any of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, or the United States.
Kuching, Malaysia — Average airfare down 46% over last year
While travelers often skip Kuching for more popular Malaysian destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Kota Kinabalu, there’s more to this town than just its scrumptious Sarawak laksa. Our suggestion? Come during the Rainforest Festival, a three-day festival featuring world music, exhibits and cultural shows amid the backdrop of the town’s beautiful forest.
Vientiane, Laos — Average airfare down 29% over last year
Laos is often overlooked for travel destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, a benefit to savvy travelers who will enjoy the off-the-beaten path feel. You could say this low-key atmosphere is part of the country’s charm. See majestic Buddhist temples sans the crowds and enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sunset over the Mekong river with an ice cold Beer Lao in hand.
Bangkok, Thailand — Average airfare down 26% over last year
Ah, Bangkok, the lively capital of Thailand. No one can deny the city’s appeal to travelers, and there’s a reason why it’s considered one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. And, why it deserves more than just a single visit in your lifetime. From culture to food, the city is constantly evolving, always giving you reason to come back.
Bahrain, Bahrain — Average airfare down 24% over last year
Bahrain may be a small country, but it packs a punch. Aside from historical sights that offer an overview of its interesting past, the country also has a thriving arts and entertainment scene, from hosting the Bahrain Grand Prix and Spring of Culture Festival to housing numerous contemporary galleries exhibiting art from the region and the world.
Which city is calling your name? Let us know in the comments and search for flights on Cheapflights.com.ph.
