Listen. Would you like to vacation in a place that is the best kept secret of Asia? Well, that strikes out from the list places like, Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Vietnam, Kuala Lumpur, Banda Ache, Shrilangka, Bali, Fiji. You see, these places are no longer secret get-away places. They are well-trodden tourist places.
Ladies and gentlemen, may I recommend the nortwestern coast of the Philippines. Yes, northwest of Manila, northwest of Baguio, down in the lowland coastal areas. I am talking more specifically about the town of Tagudin, in the province of Ilocos Sur. You can vacation there for less than $50.00 a day. This will pay for your food, lodging, and transportation.
You can take a Philippine Air Lines flight from San Francisco or Los Angeles to Manila International Airport, then take an air-conditioned bus ride to the province. The bus ride itself will be an experience. Dress lightly since the Philippines is in the tropics. Be prepared to mingle with the local folks, sample their local cuisine and fresh fruits, and be ready to walk.
Your rewards will be manifold. Filipinos from the northwestern coast are mostly Ilocanos. They do speak English and you will be able to communicate with even the small vegetable vendor in the general market place. You will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, a hospitable people and wide open spaces. The beaches along the South China Sea are mostly unoccupied and you will be free to walk and enjoy the surrounding serenity.
How do I know about all these places? I was born and raised there before I came to America. I visited there last year and it still is a veritable, unspoiled paradise... and most affordable!
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