Bohol, a province known for its natural and cultural attractions, has been named as the fastest-growing tourist destination in the Philippines by Agoda.com, an online travel platform.
Agoda.com released its first-ever “Philippines’ New Horizons” list on January 10, 2024, which ranks the destinations that have seen the highest increase in searches by both domestic and international travelers.
The list, which compares year-on-year search data, showcases the rising popularity of lesser-known tourist spots that offer diverse and sustainable travel experiences.
Bohol topped the list with a 72% increase in searches, followed by Siargao Island with 32% and Davao City with 23%.
Enric Casals, Agoda.com’s Associate Vice President, said that while the Philippines’ popular destinations still draw many visitors, there is a growing demand for new and alternative places to explore.
“Travelers are expanding their horizons and discovering new locales that offer more than one attraction and multiple activities. Agoda’s data shows an increased interest in key tourism areas that feature natural wonders, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures,” Casals said.
Bohol, for instance, is not only famous for its Chocolate Hills, but also for its white-sand beaches, amazing diving spots, and enchanting trails and rainforests. Bohol is also a UNESCO geopark, which means it has a unique geological heritage and biodiversity.
Siargao Island, on the other hand, has become a hotspot for remote workers who prefer the quiet beach life over the hustle and bustle of bigger cities. Siargao is also known for its surf spots and its booming food scene.
Davao City, meanwhile, offers a variety of outdoor sightseeing activities to suit most travelers. Davao is home to Eden Nature Park, a mountain resort with lush gardens and scenic views. Davao also has beaches like Dahican and Kaputian, which are easily accessible via public transport.
Casals said that the “Philippines’ New Horizons” list aims to inspire travelers to explore new destinations and to travel sustainably.
“By highlighting these emerging destinations, we hope to open travelers up to new experiences and new opportunities to travel responsibly. Agoda is here to support them with some of the best deals on flights, accommodation, and activities so they can enjoy the best of what these destinations have to offer,” Casals said.
Bohol’s inclusion in Agoda.com’s list is in addition to the recognition of Booking.com, another online travel platform, which named Panglao, an island in Bohol, as one of the trending destinations in the world for 2024.
Agoda.com is an online travel agency that caters primarily to consumers in the Asia-Pacific region. It has its headquarters in Singapore and operations in Bangkok, Thailand. Agoda.com facilitates reservations for lodging, flights, ground transportation, and activities. It is a subsidiary of Booking Holdings, a global leader in online travel and related services.