THE holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s time for many to take a vacation. For those who are tied to their work, this is an opportunity to take a trip without using up your vacation leaves.
Note, however, that it’s the peak season, which means traveling can be quite expensive at this time of the year. But if you have Christmas bonuses and 13th month pay, then there’s less to worry when it comes to the budget.
You may want to visit relatives living in other places; have a change of environment; tick off an item in your travel bucket list; or take a leisurely trip to your dream destination. It may be somewhere within the country or overseas. If you want to go abroad, Asia is the preferred place by most travelers. Those from the cold regions like the weather in some places in Asia during this season. The budget-conscious would look into Asia because of its great value-for-money.
Lastly, for Filipinos who only have a brief period of vacation, countries closer to home and have short-haul flights can allow more time to explore the place.
Here are some Asian destinations you can visit during the holidays. Although many of them are predominantly non-Christian countries, you can still experience Christmas, but probably in a different way.
A taste of snow: Japan or South Korea
You don’t have to go too far just to experience white Christmas. East Asia has countries like Japan and South Korea where it snows. Feel the cool weather that tropical countries do not have and spread the warmth in this side of Asia.
Lights on: Hong Kong, Macau or Singapore
Brighten up your holidays as you roam around the streets of these Asian megacities. Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore may be small geographically, but they have so many things in store for its visitors. Let their urban lights and colorful nightscape bring you that spark of joy as you partake in events happening around these modern jungles.
Shopper’s haven: Thailand or Taiwan
Find the best buys that you will not see normally in the Philippines by visiting the markets of Thailand or Taiwan. Whether it’s day or night, there are markets that are always open for you to explore and strike a bargain. Plus, the “pasalubongs” you bring home will also make great Christmas gifts to your friends and loved ones.
Culture and cuisines: Malaysia or Indochina
If you want some culture vibe and variety of flavors, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam are your choices. The countries in the Indochina part of Southeast Asia have many options for you, from bustling cities to small towns, and from modern places to heritage sites.
Once you have chosen your holiday destination, you have to make arrangements before flights and hotel rooms become full. When you’re all packed and ready, relish on the excitement of the adventure as you zoom past the Bacolod Welcome Marker that was recently inaugurated at the Northill Gateway along the New Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road on your way to the airport to catch your flight. Be sure to make great memories before you bid adieu to year 2018. See you in 2019!