In light of the recent recognition, the Department of Tourism shares how delighted it is to hear that the Philippines is considered “as an idyllic and affordable tropical destination” by Australian travelers. 

This information comes from a recent article by news.com.au, citing the Philippines as the go-to choice for Aussies due to the rising costs amid SEA neighbors. According to the article, visiting places like Bali, Indonesia have become expensive for Australian travelers. Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal that Aussies visiting the Philippines went from 112,500 in 2022 to 233,170 in 2023.

“We are thrilled to see the Philippines becoming a top choice for Australian travelers,” shares DOT Secretary Christina Frasco. “The Philippines offers an exceptional combination of breathtaking natural beauty, cultural experiences, and remarkable affordability, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a memorable yet budget-friendly vacation.”

Based on DOT data, as of Sept. 23, Australians rank fifth in tourist arrivals. A total of 175,107 Aussies visited the country in January alone, contributing four percent to total foreign arrivals. According to the news.com.au article, the draw can be credited to the diverse beach locations, unique flavors from the local cuisine, and affordable yet comfortable accommodations to name a few.

“We continue to enhance our tourism offerings and infrastructure while prioritizing sustainable travel practices,” adds Frasco. “We continue to enhance our tourism offerings and infrastructure while prioritizing sustainable travel practices.”

Low-cost airlines have also been cited in playing a significant role for making the Philippines more accessible to Australian tourists. This allows them to take trips to areas like Coron, El Nido, Siargao, Boracay, and many more. As more direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth to Manila are offered by commercial airlines, we can only expect a greater boom in getting visits from our Aussie friends.