Visa Free Destinations for Filipino’s (Part 2)
Here’s a boatload more of Visa Free Destinations to keep you curious and filled with wanderlust, if the locations in the first article weren’t enough! And yes, they are really Visa-free! No need to brood over requirements, appointments, and long queues at the embassy! Take your pick!
Visa Free Destination 1. Cape Verde Islands (30 Days Visa on Arrival) – The Colorful Peninsula
Planning a trip to the ancestral lands of Africa? Start at the tip of the continent! Cape Verde was first colonized by the Portuguese during the 15th century. The history of the country has since been littered with trade and culture from different peoples and lands. If you’re beginning at this point, be sure to revel at the magnificence of Pico do Fogo volcano. When you’re done with the land take the scenic route and explore the mansion art gallery of Palacio do Povo and the beautiful lighthouse of Farol de D. Maria Pia.
Visa Free Destination 2. Comoros (45 Days Visa on Arrival) – Africa’s Cultural Crossroads
What better way to start an adventure than to visit three volcanic islands in one country! The Comoros Islands are home to many different cultures. Naturally, the topical climate of these islands make for great vacations; not to mention the towering marvels of nature that call these islands home. Besides the usual volcanic-island hopping, you can also enjoy the beautiful beaches of surrounding Mount Karthala as well as the Grande Comore shorelines. The city proper of Mutsamudu is also sure to impress.
Visa Free Destination 3. Djibouti (Visa on Arrival) – The Center of the Horn of Africa
If you look at Africa as it lies on a map, you’ll notice that the continent has a protruding rear-end that looks like a horn. This is known as the Horn of Africa. No, you won’t find people with horns there but what you will find are beautiful countries with rich cultures and traditions. Right in the center of that group of countries is Djibouti. This peninsula country boasts the grandiose Hamoudi Mosque, one of the most beautiful places of worship in the world. It’s also located to the Djibouti Central Market which is a haven for travel shoppers. If you’re not into shopping, why not marvel at the salt beds at Lake Assal and Blancs Beach?
Visa Free Destination 4. Gambia (90 Days Visa Free) – The Republic of THE Gambia
Situated right next to the nourishing Gambia river, the country decided to label itself as THE Gambia so that people won’t confuse the country with the lake. But take heed, though, the Gambia river isn’t the only thing worth seeing here. Right next to the majestic Gambia river, you can find the bustling trading community at the Albert Market in Banjul. Experience the best flavors the country has to offer while viewing the great river. You’ve also got the crocodile beaches and the crocodile gardens in Bakau if you’re in for something different.
Visa Free Destination 5: Guinea-Bissau (90 Days Visa on Arrival) –Two Nations in One
Where else can you find two diverse peoples coming together in one historic country? Guniea-Bissau is called such because the people struggled during the 70’s against oppression and colonization. Their hard-fought freedom resulted in the birth of a new country by that very union of the kingdom of Gabu and Bissau. Apart from the rich history and stories from the locals, you should also head to the colonial town in Bissau as well as the resorts and eco-tourism hotspots hidden within the Bissagos Islands.
Visa Free Destination 6: Kenya (90 Days Visa on Arrival) – The Soul of the Safari
If Africa has to be known for something, it would have to be the iconic hazy afternoon glow of the Safari sun as it plummets into the landscape. The rich wildlife and flora that populate the many reserves and tours within Kenya are trademark of African tourism. No trip is complete if you haven’t been with the elephants and zebras of the Tsavo East National Park. You will also want to experience the wildlife at the Amboseli National Park. On top of all that, you should center your visit around the capital city of Nairobi and appreciate the Safari departure just the way the locals recommend.
Visa Free Destination 7: Madagascar (90 Days Visa on Arrival) –The Heart of the Safari
If Kenya is the soul that represents the essence of the Safari image, Madagascar is the heart at which the historical roots of the continent have sprung. Madagascar’s history is a rich story of kingdoms, struggles, republics and changes. Alongside these historical changes, the landscape and fauna have never changed, allowing the country to retain its Safari-esque charm despite modernization over the years. If you’re looking for the metropolis, you’ll want to be at the Antananarivo palace. If you’re looking for the sights of the island, you’ll want to be in Morondava and Nosy Be where the lakes and islands capture the marin beauty of the Safari landscape.
Visa Free Destination 8: Morocco (90 Days) – The Untouched Kingdom
Morocco isn’t your average monarchy. It’s one of the very few kingdoms that did not give in to colonization. Hence, you’re going to find authentic tribal lineages and cultures within Morocco. That means a delicate mix of Islamic influences along with Arab touches. The capital Casablanca is as beautiful and authentic as its name suggests. The Mosques in Marrakesh and Fes are worth seeing especially for the religiously-inclined. If you’re more into the sights, be sure to check the seaside view of Medina as well as Dar el Makhzen.
Visa Free Destination 9: Mozambique (30 Days Visa on Arrival) – The Window to the Indian Ocean
Right near the bottom corner of Africa, the country of Mozambique lies right next to the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. It stares right at Madagascar across the Mozambique channel. Here, you get to see the heart of the Safari from the majesty of the metropolis. Since you’re right next to the Indian Ocean, you might as well enjoy the lovely resort beaches on Bazaruto Island, Tofo, and Vilankulo. The Baixa district within Maputo is also a popular destination if you’re aren’t into the beaches.
Visa Free Destination 10: Rwanda (90 Days Visa Free) – The Heart of Africa
Right smack in the middle area of the continent, you’ll find Rwanda which retains its charm as the geological treasure trove of Africa. Predominantly populated by native Rwandans, the cultural scene can’t get any more authentic. When you’re here, you won’t be looking for a man-made metropolis. Here, you’re going to want to dive right into Mother Nature’s splendor. Check out the Genocide Memorial at Kigali as well as the famous Volcanoes National Park. Here, you also have the well-known Gorilla mountain near lake Kivu and the Nyungwe Forest.
Visa Free Destination 11: Senegal (30 Days Visa on Arrival) –A Filipino Heart in Africa
While many Filipinos consider the country to be authentically and madly in love with basketball, the citizens of Senegal would beg to differ. These people share the same enthusiasm we have for the sport of choice. The Senegal team performed quite well during the 2014 FIBA World Cup. That’s how much they love the sport. But they’re not just big on basketball. They’re also big on hospitality; another thing we Filipinos are also known for. Being kind to visitors and guests is just as deeply embedded into their culture as it is in ours. Experience that hospitality within the capital city of Dakar or along the many beaches at SalyPortudal and Saint-Louis.
Visa Free Destination 12: Seychelles (30 Days Visa on Arrival) –115 Island Surprises
As the tag implies, you’re in for a marine treat through Seychelles. The rich and diverse marine wildlife is simply staggering. The collection of natural reserves such as the Cousin Island and Aride Island pave the way to appreciating the splendors of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park as well as the snorkeling activities with the turtles at Curieuse Island. If you’re a big beach and diving lover, you’re going to love Seychelles for 115 reasons.
Visa Free Destination 13: Tanzania (31 Days Visa on Arrival) –The Seat of Kilimanjaro
You’ve heard of the mighty mountain, but have you heard of the beautiful plans, safaris, rivers, and game sites that decorate the country playing host to this mountain? In all fairness, you don’t just go to Tanzania solely for Kilimanjaro. There are also the House of Wonders and the Old Fort at Unguja. There’s also the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Mighty Kilimanjaro is just the icing on the cake.
Visa Free Destination 14: Togo (7 Days Visa on Arrival) – The Country Artifact
When you visit Togo, you don’t go there for the beautiful places such as the peninsula-like Aneho beach and the National Museum. Besides the sights, the country sits as one of the most iconic places that weathered an era of slavery and independence. Today, the country is proud of its struggle and challenges towards the road to freedom and independence. Visit Lome for the museum and Lake Togo where the country started its rough journey to freedom.
Visa Free Destination 15: Uganda (Visa on Arrival) –The Pearl of Africa
This is the smallest country within the eastern section of Africa. Given the size of Uganda, Winston Churchill himself called Uganda the Pearl of Africa. Despite covering the least amount of land, Uganda plays home to the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Murchison Falls National Park. But from all the natural reserves that the country protects, the most coveted would have to be the Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Visa Free Destination 16: Zambia (E-Visa Approved) – The Land of 73 Tribes
You read that right. Zambia serves as home to 73 ethnic groups. That means 73 distinct peoples call Zambia their homeland. They take care of their land and perform a myriad of traditional ceremonies that decorate the tourism calendar. You never know who’s celebrating what! On top of that, the ethnicities living within Zambia have curated perhaps the best wildlife and gaming reserves. Zambia is home to UNESCO Heritage Site Victoria Falls.
Visa Free Destination 17: Costa Rica (90 Days) –The Land of Wonderful Mornings
If you’re just like everyone else that loves a good cup of coffee in the morning, Costa Rica will surely capture your penchants. Due to the nature of the volcanic soil in the region, coffee beans grown within Costa Rica develop a certain quality that sets them apart from any other bean in the world. It’s considered the best in the planet. Hence, coffee is the country’s number one export. Besides the amazing coffee, you’re also going to want to visit the capital San Jose with its museums and bars. If you’re the nature-loving type, your best bet lies in the heart of the hiking trails in Monteverde.
Visa Free Destination 18: Nicaragua (30 Days Visa on Arrival) – The Land of Rum
Besides being known for having many lakes and volcanoes, Nicaragua has also garnered notoriety around the world for it’s world-class rum. Look for Flor de Cana if you ever land there. This brand has been brewing since 1890. That’s long enough to have perfected the recipe! But before getting drunk on rum, you’re going to want to see Lake Nicaragua in Granada and the Flor Nature Reserve in San Juan del Sur.
Visa Free Destination 19: Haiti (90 Days) – The Land of Mountains
The term “Haiti” evolved from the term “Ayiti” which came from the natives within the country. This word translates to “land of mountains”. Naturally, the landscape is resplendent with numerous peaks that would wet any hiker’s pants. You’ll certainly come for the mountains but you will definitely stay for the iron market at Port-au-Prince, Notre-Dame Cathedral at Cap-Haitien and the breathtaking beach at Labadee.
Visa Free Destination 20: Kosovo (15 Days for Schengen Visa Holders) – The Young Country
You’ll be surprised to know that Kosovo isn’t that old yet; literally and figuratively. The Republic itself is just barely ten years old. It’s also a nation of young people. More than 65% of the population is just a little under 35 years of age. That makes for a very young population. If you’re within that age group, you’ll love the bars, restaurants, clubs, and lounges that cater to that demographic. If you’re more of the scenic hunter, Fierza and Gazivoda Lake are some good picks.
Visa Free Destination 21: Fiji (210 Days) – Where the North Meets the East
That statement carries through most prominently in Fiji-inspired food. Here, you’ve got northern influences mixing with Indian and Korean touches. Where else have you seen such a beautiful mixing of cultures in food. You’re definitely going to want to visit Fiji for the food. There, you’re sure everything is organic because importation is expensive. It’s also a country of bright colors. Once you set foot into the Sri Siva Temple and the Kula Eco Park, a symphony of colors and cultures is ready to greet you and make your visit a memorable one.
Visa Free Destination 22: Marshall Islands (90 Days Visa on Arrival) –Blue Lagoons in the Blue Lagoon
One thing you’ve got to like about islands is the probability of finding quaint little lagoons that would complete your trip. The Marshall Islands are just for that. When you call a group of islands like that a country, then you end up with a treasure trove of marine attractions that capture the calm of the ocean and squeeze it all into a small space. Most notable of the Marshall Island lagoons are in Majuro, Kwajalein Island, Enewetak Atoll, and of course, the ever so popular Bikini Atoll.
Visa Free Destination 23: Micronesia Islands (30 Days) – Land of Mountains on Islands
While lagoons and lakes and other water-based attractions are expected of islands, Micronesia goes against the flow by playing host to various mountains that sit afloat their many, scattered islets. And these aren’t just mountains for show. These are true, majestic and large land masses that can capture the heart of any hiker and adventurer. You’re definitely going to want go hiking along Chuuk Lagoon and visit the Jellyfish lake.
Visa Free Destination 24: Palau (30 Days Visa on Arrival) – Modern-Day Atlantis
If you’re not the type that enjoys a quick swim and you’d rather push your limits and explore the wonders of the deep, look no further than Palau. The country is primarily known for its diving attractions that seem to transport tourists to other worlds underneath the deep blue. Most prominent of these diving and snorkeling attractions can be found in Koror, the Rock Islands, Peleliu, and Badeldaob.
Visa Free Destination 25: Samoa (60 Days with Visitor’s Permit on Arrival) – The Cradle of Polynesia
Looking for something authentically “Hawaiian” without having to go to Hawaii? Then Samoa is the place for you. Taking its roots directly from Polynesian experience, Samoan culture serves as an extension of Polynesian influences. This is where the surf, the luau, and the pina coladas come from. For a truly authentic experience, hit the beaches at Upolu, Savai’I, Apira, and of course, the Samoan Islands. The culture and people will make you want to put on that grass skirt right away.
And there you have it! These are your Visa-free destinations as of the end of 2017; complete with attractions as well as backgrounds. A few more Google clicks should get you some nice destination pictures you can pin to your planner. With these choices, you no longer run the risk of having your Visa rejected or delayed. Take this time to fuel your wanderlust and plot out those long weekends!
Check out Part 1 of Visa Free Destinations for Filipino’s
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