2018 Travel Bucket List For Filipinos

Late last year, TIME came out with their 50 Best Places To Travel in 2018. Since it’s quite a long list, Pilipinas Popcorn narrows it down to a list of countries where Philippine passport holders can enjoy easy entry. Here is our recommended places to travel this 2018.

Add These Places To Your Travel Bucket List

From Time’s list of 50, we narrow it down to 6 countries only. Sadly, the Philippine passport only commands that much power when it comes international travel. Nevertheless, the list is quite exciting.

1. Uzkbekistan. This former Soviet republic can be reached through its capital, Tashkent. International flights from major Asian hubs such as Beijing, Kuala Lumpur and Incheon, South Korea are available. Don’t be misled by its Soviet history – before it became part of the republic, it was once part of the ancient Silk Road that played a significant role in the flourishing of ancient civilizations. Marvel at the remnants of communist Soviet influence in its architecture. Or take a walk down history lane when you visit its majestic mosques.

Because there is no Uzbekistan embassy in the Philippines, getting a visa on arrival in Tashkent can be done. It is easier if you join a tour group as local travel agencies will take care of getting a visa for your group.

2. Morocco. Morocco’s capital Marrakesh is famous for its “vibrant sensory landscape” which has attracted artists from different parts of the world – artists, designer, writers, musicians. Its cultural scene remains vibrant especially since French designer Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) established the YSL Museum which opened to the public October last year. The city also has its own art biennial which happens next in 2020.

Vibrant can also be used to describe the city’s local market. Local arts and crafts are colorful, while local food is a wonderful mix of Arabic, Andalusian and Mediterranean flavors that is one of a kind. Filipinos are not required to get a visa if staying for less than 90 days.

3. Fiji. If you prefer the sand and sea, this country in the South Pacific is the destination for you. Fiji is a former British territory and you can see it in the country’s architecture especially in its capital, Nadi. The country however is known for its pristine beaches, beautiful islands and coral reefs. Scuba diving is a common tourist activity, but the country’s history also makes for an interesting side trip.

Filipinos can enter Fiji, through the international airport in Nadi, without a visa. Tourists can stay for up to 4 months.

4. Zambia. Although Filipinos are required to get a visa to this African country, it’s relatively easy to get one through the country’s electronic visa system. Zambia, according to the Time article is “one of Africa’s great safari destinations.” It has several national parks where you can get the best safari guides and see the most animals.

5. Laos. Since Laos is part of the ASEAN, Filipinos are visa-exempt so long as you stay for up to 30 days. Time mentions the heritage city of Luang Prabang as the place to go in Laos. Revel in this riverside city’s magnificent Buddhist temples, impressive colonial architecture, mixed with the beauty of nature and of course, its elephant sanctuaries.

6. Brazil. Time recommends Brazil’s financial capital, Sao Paolo, because of its thriving arts, culture and culinary scene. The city’s Art Biennial happens this September, where you can catch international and local artists at their best. Plus, one of the world’s best restaurants can be found here so what more can foodies ask for? Filipinos are visa-exempt when traveling to Brazil.