Baguio hailed Philippines' most affordable holiday destination

MANILA, Philippines — Perhaps it is because at least two holidays take place during the same period or because the children are off from school at this time of the year, but the last 10 days of the year always turn out to be the peak of travel season. 

This is a worldwide phenomenon observed by travel app Agoda. People are always on the lookout for the best deals, and Agoda, analyzing the average room rates of tourist destinations from December 22 to 31, has come up with a list of the 10 most affordable destinations around Asia Pacific for Christmas and New Year.

The top spot goes to Hat Yai in Thailand, followed by Yogyakarta in Indonesia, Kuching in Malaysia, Dalat in Vietnam, and Goa in India to round out the Top 5. Baguio, which is the Philippines’ most affordable destination for the yearend, makes it to NO. 6, followed by Nagoya in Japan, Taichung in Taiwan, Melbourne in Australia, and Busan in South Korea. Average room rates vary from P2,450 in Hat Yai to P9,000 in Busan, with Baguio turning out an average room rate of P5,400.

“The year 2023 has seen a great resurgence in travel across Asia as people reconnect with friends, family and loved ones and that special end-of-year holiday window is likely to be no different,” said Enric Casals, Associate Vice President, Agoda.

He added: “But whether you’re on a solo adventure or making memories with loved ones, traveling during peak season means higher demand, so finding that special bargain can make all the difference. By highlighting the tourist destinations with the most affordable average accommodation rates, Agoda helps travelers, whatever their budget, celebrate the year-end in style.”

Being the lowest priced tourist destinations, however, does not mean these places are boring, uninteresting. Not at all. These researched destinations have a lot to offer and each has its own attractions and charms. Here are some of the highlights:

Hat Yai is home to an abundance of trendy coffee shops, a vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood. This southern city is known for its local cuisine and delicious seafood. Hat Yai is an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding countryside, to visit the stunning waterfalls