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Find out all our content from hotel reviews, insights from French about the Philippines to news about tourism and best places to visit in the country!

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photo french humanitaire aux philippines gawad kalinga

French living in the Philippines, their insights on: Family & Independence

Born and raised in France, living in the Philippines is a real culture shock. Both countries have their own identity and choosing between them only depends on you. What we want to do here is only to express our own insight.
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Most Popular Posts

las casas filipinas de acuzar

Preserving the cultural heritage of the Philippines - Travel Guide to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

The Philippines has a very rich culture and there are lots of traditions! Although, it is sometimes very hard to see it. Which is why we took the car, rode three hours away from Manila and arrived at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. This Heritage Resort in Bataan tries to preserve the past by rebuilding Elite Houses from the Spanish Era.
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Where to stay in Boracay in 2022? Do you know about Station 0?

Boracay has become one of our favorite islands in the Philippines. Why? In 2018, the whole island had a temporary closure in order to rehabilitate and redevelop the place. The efforts aimed to promote a more sustainable tourism and thanks to those, we are now enjoying a cleaner and better experience.
Read More
2 french in Manila jumping pool

9 Reasons Why Living in the Philippines is Amazing

The first time, we went to the Philippines, we explored its provinces and its many islands. Now, we've even settled in its main city: Metro Manila. And since, we live here. We've seen many friends, coming from Europe, traveling here. As the Philippines is becoming a very popular travel destination.
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Latest Blog Posts

September 27, 2022
What to visit in Davao City Philippines | Davao City Travel Guide 2022

Davao City is hailed to be the Philippines’ King City of the South. You might wonder why it is called this way.  Did you know that Davao City is perhaps the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area? We were a bit surprised too since we thought that Quezon City in Metro […]

September 24, 2022
First timers travel Guide in Philippines 2022 | 2-3 weeks itinerary for French/ Foreign tourists

Vacation is a captivating idea for all. The challenging part is choosing which place to visit. We know, there’s just too much on the list. And out of all the places around the globe, you choose the Philippines. Welcome to the Pearl of the Orient Seas! If it’s your first time visiting the country, we’ll […]

September 20, 2022
French Delicacies to try in Manila

Did you know that you can explore these French delicacies in Manila? French food is something new to the Filipino palette. Most Filipinos are more used to American and other neighboring Asian countries’ cuisine. French food can get a bit intimidating at first due to its unfamiliarity, but once you start tasting them? You will […]

September 17, 2022
Apo Whang Od Tattoo: A thousand-year-old tradition of Batok continues

Apo Whang Od Tattoo: A thousand-year old tradition of batok continues Found in the mountains of Kalinga is the remote village of Buscalan, the home of the last traditional mambabatok (tribal tattoo artist) named Apo Whang Od. Whang-Od Oggay, commonly known as Apo Whang Od, started her career as a tattoo artist to the indigenous […]

September 13, 2022
Siquijor Travel Guide 2022 | Siquijor Tourist Spots, Restaurants, and Hotels

Now that we can travel again, the first thing that we all probably did was to travel to popular destinations in the Philippines like Boracay, Palawan, or even Siargao. Now as we all bounce back to our normal lives, we are planning on the new places we visit and trying out new things. In our […]

September 10, 2022
Planning to visit France? Top 6 Most Beautiful Places in France aside from Paris

For Filipino travelers or travelers in general, a trip to Paris is a dream come true! But now that you’ve visited the city of lights, you may now wonder what more France has to offer on your next trip. Should you just revisit Paris once again? You could do that of course! But did you […]

September 6, 2022
Top 6 Best Glamping Sites Near Manila Philippines

Most of our days are spent running around and trying to get things done. Let’s be honest, sometimes we just wanted to step out for a while and forget the long list of duties. Well, why don’t we spare a day or two for leisure? Glamping kind of reminds us of the Bohemian Coachella vibes, […]

September 3, 2022
Luxury Beach Resorts in Station 0 Boracay | Boracay Travel Guide 2022

Did you know that there’s another Station in Boracay you may not have heard of before? When we go to Boracay especially on a budget, we usually just stay in more affordable accommodations in Station 1 and Station 2. But did you know that there’s another Station on the island that you can visit? This station […]

August 31, 2022
Top 6 Best Tourist Spots in the Philippines | Alternative Places aside from the Beach

The Philippines has a very abundant number of beaches around the country. Two of which made it on some of the world's best beaches. It wouldn’t be that surprising as the country has more than 7,000 islands, plus the country is an archipelago and has numerous coastal provinces and towns. For that reason, the Philippines […]

August 27, 2022
Santorini of the Philippines: 5 Hotels to make you think you’re in Santorini

Picture it: You’re on the Greek island of Santorini, enjoying the incredible views and relaxing in one of the many Santorini of the Philippines hotels. The blue waters are crystal clear, the houses have that iconic white-washed look and you can only hear the soft lap of waves against rocks. These are just some of […]

August 23, 2022
Top 6 Must-try Best Bacolod Delicacies

Bacolod is one of the known cities in the country for its delicious food! Several delicacies of the city have been enjoyed across the country, or even the world for quite some time now.  From hearty main course meals to sweet and delicious desserts, you can never go wrong with these classic Bacolod delicacies!  But […]

August 18, 2022
Top 6 Mountain Hiking in Batangas for Beginners

The province of Batangas is known for its irresistible charm and a common travel destination for people living in Manila due to its proximity. It is home to the well-known Taal Volcano, historical sites, spectacular beaches, and diving spots that would definitely make you say “YES!” to visit these mountains hiking in Batangas for Beginners. […]

August 16, 2022
Top 8 Best Historic Hotels in the Philippines that will make you transport back in time

As a traveler, you’re always looking for the best of what your destination has to offer. After all, there is something special about experiencing culture and history in new ways. However, sometimes the best way to experience history is from within—and that’s exactly what these Historic Hotels in the Philippines offer. These Historic Hotels in […]

August 12, 2022
Top 6 Tourist Spots in Bacolod Philippines You Need to Visit 2022

When it comes to local tourism in the Philippines, Boracay, and Palawan beaches are the most common destinations being visited. But did you know that there’s a city worth visiting as well aside from these popular tourist spots in the Philippines? We know that you will love these Top 6 Tourist Spots in Bacolod Philippines You […]

August 9, 2022
Top 7 Instagrammable Hotels in the Philippines Creative People will love

Inspiration is everywhere, as they say. And these Top 7 Instagrammable Hotels in the Philippines might just be the perfect place where your next big project would be born! Canvas Boutique Hotel Puerto Princesa, Palawan is already a work of art in itself. And when you stay at Canvas Boutique Hotel, you’ll definitely be brimming […]

August 5, 2022
TOP 6 Best French Restaurants Metro Manila Philippines

Ratatouille (Thanks to Disney 😜), Beef Bordeaux, Escargot, Baguette and Crepe are just some of the popular French food that you might be familiar with. All over the world, these French Restaurants in Metro Manila continue to surprise people with innovative meals. Each plate aims to satisfy the tastebuds and the eyes of the diner.  […]

July 26, 2022
Filipino Restaurants in Metro Manila Philippines | 10 Must-try for every foreign traveler

Savoring must-try comfort food Filipinos loved throughout the ages should be a part of every tourist’s itinerary in order to capture the best of Filipino experience. Filipino cuisine is starting to gain popularity across the world, as Filipino chefs abroad introduce the authentic flavors that Filipino food has. We believe that you should try it, […]

July 23, 2022
Remote Work Philippines Destinations | Top 7 WFH for Digital Nomads

Have you ever sat at your same old work desk and wished you were on vacation? Well, you better pack your bags now. We’ve found the best destinations where you can work productively and still have your dream vacation in these Remote Work Philippines Destinations ! Lately, we've come across an article that discusses how […]

July 19, 2022
8 Best Hostels & Beach Resorts in La Union Philippines!

Now that we’ve featured Elyu and the best beaches you should visit in La Union, it is just right for us to share the 8 Best Hostels & Beach Resorts in La Union! La Union is another up-and-coming tourist destination due to its proximity to Metro Manila. That’s why it is popular with local and […]

July 16, 2022
Five Diving Spots in the Philippines you should Visit!

The Philippines sits in the Indo-Pacific's Coral Triangle, which is home to Asia’s richest marine ecosystems. Think of corals in every texture possible, a variety of fish in every color of the rainbow, and some of the biggest marine mammals and predators ever known. We can say that Five Diving Spots in the Philippines into […]

July 12, 2022
Best Beach in La Union Philippines | 5 Different Beaches for every Traveler 2022

La Union is another popular tourist destination in the Philippines. Both local and foreign visitors find delightful experiences in the various Best Beach in La Union Philippines that this coastal province has to offer. We’re no different from the other tourists who came once to La Union and wanted to come back as often as […]

July 9, 2022
Maldives of the Philippines: 11 Places to visit for your next vacation!

The Maldives as seen all over the internet and it is even a favorite vacation destination among the world's top celebrities in the Maldives like the Kardashians, Lionel Messi, Justin Bieber, and a whole bunch more! It becomes easier to understand why this gorgeous island is worth a visit. It is endowed with pristine beaches, […]

July 5, 2022
Elyu La Union on the Weekend Destination

Elyu La Union is one of the popular beach destinations for young Filipinos today. What’s not to like about it? It’s only 5 hours away from Manila, it has the hippest, and coolest, places to hang out, and you can learn how to surf! It’s like Boracay and Siargao met in one place! Though nothing […]

June 21, 2022
TOP 5 best Beaches in Batangas, Philippines

Batangas is a paradise for beach bums and history buffs. The province is brimming with so many beautiful beaches, as well as historical sites and old churches. And the best part? The beaches and tourist destinations are just approximately 2-3 hours away from Manila. That’s why Batangas has become a favorite destination for weekend warriors […]

June 4, 2022
7 Cool Destinations to Beat the Heat in the Philippines

People from all over the world love having their vacation in the Philippines to enjoy the warm weather, especially at the beaches. But sometimes the scorching heat can be unbearable and uncomfortable, you might want to seek tourist destinations that can keep you fresh. So, here are 7 cool destinations where you can beat the […]

May 31, 2022
Banaue Rice Terraces Guide 2022: With Video and Amazing Pictures

Are you thinking of visiting the beautiful rice terraces of Banaue in the north of the Philippines?  Well, let’s talk more about one of the most breathtaking sites of the country, what to expect, and what we loved on our short trip there. First, it is probably one of the most popular destinations among French […]

May 25, 2022
5 Best Places to Visit in Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island is a tropical paradise that deserves a spot on every beach lover’s bucket list.  The island boasts beaches with the finest and whitest sand, and sparkling blue waters that will make you want to swim all day. In fact, the popular Filipino movie ‘Camp Sawi’ was filmed on one of the beaches in […]

May 21, 2022
How to travel to Bantayan Island and what to do there in 2022? Check out our complete guide!

The long wait for less strict travel protocols is here! You might have seen a lot of your friends and co-workers online post their best summer and beach pics while you’re still hesitant to get out and enjoy the outdoors once more as you did prior to all that has happened lately. But did you […]

May 17, 2022
5 Private Islands You Can Rent in the Philippines

Ever daydreamed of owning an island? It’s not impossible, but literally ‘owning’ an island may seem like a far-fetched dream for most. Fortunately, there are 5 exclusive islands in the Philippines that will make you feel like you have your own paradise! Sundang Island Do you really have to be in the middle of the […]

May 14, 2022
Cebu’s Top 6 Tourist Spots to Explore

Nothing beats Cebu when it comes to diversity. It has beaches, islands, historical sites, lots of natural wonders, various activities – this place is definitely your gateway to a thousand adventures. Cebu, the Queen City of the South, is the oldest city in the Philippines. It’s one of the most developed cities as well. But […]

May 10, 2022
7 Best Tourist Spots to Visit in Dumaguete

Despite being a bustling city and having a thriving economy, Dumaguete retains its laid-back lifestyle. And pair that up with the kind-hearted nature of the locals, it’s no wonder why tourists love to stay longer (maybe even forever!) in Dumaguete. Here are 7 best tourist spots you need to see for yourself, and find out […]

May 6, 2022
5 Underrated Beaches in the Philippines You Need to See in 2022

The Philippines is an archipelago with 7,641 islands (according to the latest data by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority). So the country is inevitably filled with hundreds of beaches that may be the best ever in the world. You’ve probably heard of (and maybe even visited) the white sand beaches in Boracay, Palawan, […]

May 3, 2022
5 Awesome Luxury Beach Resorts near Manila for a Quick Gateway

We’re sure you’re itching to go on a vacation now that travel restrictions are easing up. Fortunately, you don’t have to book a flight just to get to some of the best beaches in the Philippines. In fact, all it takes is a few hours of driving to get your dose of sun, sand, and […]

April 26, 2022
Packing tips you need to know on your trip to the Philippines this summer. Are your bags packed and ready to go?

Now that summer is here, you booked that hotel in the destination you’ve been eyeing on social media. You’ve landed a good flight deal on Air Asia’s recent seat sale. The multiple outfits for the ‘gram are on fleek too.  Everything’s set, now you might be asking, how on earth do I pack for my […]

April 23, 2022
Atmosphere Resorts & Spa | Hotel Review

During our last trip to Dumaguete with the Air Asia team, we visited Atmosphere resorts & spa. And honestly, we fell in love with this splendid resort thanks to the beauty of the place and its super attentive team. So let us tell you a little more about the place. Why should you stay in […]

April 19, 2022
How To Plan Your Perfect Summer Trip in the Philippines 2022

The summer season in the Philippines is here. It is a little bit different to the summer months in Europe and the USA. The Philippines only has two seasons, wet and dry seasons. March-June are the hottest months in the country and the best months for you to visit the country. July-October is the wet […]

April 16, 2022
Manila Marriott Hotel | Hotel Review

Why should you stay in the Manila Marriott Hotel? (Overview) If you want to experience citylife at its best, then it’s worth staying at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay city.  The hotel is sandwiched between Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC), two of the country’s busiest business districts. Staying in Marriott also means experiencing […]

April 7, 2022
6 Must-See Destinations in the Philippines

The Philippines has become a popular destination for international tourists -- and it’s no surprise. The clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and diverse sea and land creatures are truly unmatched! Surely you’re itching to go on a relaxing vacation since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. And now that the Philippines have opened […]

April 3, 2022
French and Filipino Culture: Similarities & Differences

Each country has their own unique culture. Some social customs may seem strange for foreigners, while other norms are quite similar across countries. What’s unusual with one is normal with the other.  We’ve been in the Philippines for quite some time and we’ve experienced local Filipino culture firsthand. Because of their history and outside influences […]

March 23, 2022
Okada Manila, The Entertainment Hub | Hotel Review

Why should you stay in Okada Manila? (Overview) If you want to experience life at the finest entertainment hub of the Philippines, then you should stay at Okada Manila. Debuting in March 2017, Okada Manila is part of the Entertainment City Complex in Parañaque City. It’s one of the best hotels, and even dubbed as […]

March 20, 2022
Traveling to Palawan Soon? Here’s What You Need To Know

Palawan is like a treasure trove full of amazing destinations and sights to see. It’s home to 1,700 pristine islands and islets which bejewel the four main destinations of Palawan: Puerto Princesa, San Vicente, El Nido, and Coron. Each destination is wonderful, and all of them are just so incomparable. You’re definitely in for a […]

March 9, 2022
Where to get the best French classes in the Philippines?

Overview Are you looking for the best French classes in the Philippines? Or are you thinking if it is possible for you to learn French in the Philippines? That's awesome! Learning a new language is all about experiences. It opens your mind and can come very handy as you travel, or even live abroad, having […]

February 19, 2022
Philippines Reopening to International Tourists! What You Need To Know

Last Update: February 19, 2022. Finally, we're back! Nelson just flew to Manila on February 18, 2019. As a visa free traveler, he was able to arrive without any issue in the Philippines. The process at the immigration was smooth and organized. The airport isn't too cowded. The Philippines is reopening to international tourists and […]

February 15, 2022
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila | Hotel Review

Why should you stay in Sofitel? | Overview If you want to get up close and personal with one of the most popular spots in Metro Manila, then consider staying at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel. Pasay City, particularly Roxas Boulevard, is known for entertainment, restaurants, cafes, clubs, and, most importantly, Manila Bay. The best way […]

February 13, 2022
Grand Hyatt Manila | Hotel Review

Why should you stay in Grand Hyatt? | Overview If you want to have a taste of the glitzy lifestyle at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC), then you have to book your stay at the Grand Hyatt Manila. This five-star luxury hotel opened in January 2018. Plus, it is currently the tallest hotel in the […]

February 11, 2022
The Peninsula Manila | Hotel Review

Why should you stay in the Peninsula Manila? (Overview) If you’re looking at staying in the Philippines’ financial hub in Metro Manila. You can definitely book your stay at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City. Towering skyscrapers and patches of greens are all over the city.  Since it’s the central business district, you can expect […]

January 14, 2022
The Farm at San Benito | Hotel Review

Why should you stay in the Farm at San Benito? | Overview We were really craving for some nature and escape from stress and exhaustion. Life in Metro Manila is so fast and busy. Which is why we decided to try the Farm San Benito, the five-star holistic resort in Lipa, Batangas. Mother nature knows […]

January 10, 2022
Anya Resort Tagaytay (Luxury Destination) | Hotel Review

Ask a citin where they’ll go for a quick getaway, and they’ll probably say Tagaytay. This city is popular for its cool climate, greenery, and, of course, the splendid view of the Taal volcano. And most importantly, Tagaytay is only an hour and thirty minutes away from the metro. So it’s no surprise why Tagaytay […]

January 8, 2022
Where to stay in Boracay in 2022? Do you know about Station 0?

Boracay has become one of our favorite islands in the Philippines. Why? In 2018, the whole island had a temporary closure in order to rehabilitate and redevelop the place. The efforts aimed to promote a more sustainable tourism and thanks to those, we are now enjoying a cleaner and better experience. Since, we went several […]

January 3, 2022
Club Punta Fuego| Hotel Review (+ Video)

Overview Our first time at Club Punta Fuego was an unexpected incredible experience! We were able to assist to a baby turtles hatch on their main beach. It does not happen all the time but if you're lucky enough. You'll be invited to participate to their release. More than that, the hotel is not too […]

April 11, 2021
The District Boracay, Contemporary Resort | Hotel Review

Overview The last time we stayed at The District Boracay was on October 2020. Just when Boracay just reopened its doors to local tourism. It’s the beautiful white beach, azure skies, pristine waters, and the world-famous sunset that attracts thousands of tourists to Boracay every year. You’d want to spend as much time as you […]

April 5, 2021
Crimson Resort & Spa Boracay (Luxury Travel) | Hotel Review

In Boracay, each station has its own charm and personality to cater different kinds of guests. But there is a lesser-known and ultra-exclusive station that’s secluded from everyone else, and offers a luxurious experience like no other — Station Zero. The first time we went to Boracay, we’ve always looked at it as the perfect […]

March 3, 2021
Villa Caemilla Beach Boutique Hotel, Boracay | Hotel Review

The Philippines is bespeckled with gorgeous beaches and lovely islands. They attract tourists from all over the world. And one of the most famous beaches is found in the island of Boracay. The 3.5 kilometer-long white beach of Boracay has been divided into three segments, namely Station 1, 2, and 3. Each station is dotted […]

February 24, 2021
Travel back in time at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Bataan | Hotel Review

The Philippines is one of the countries with such a rich culture, but you’ll barely see it when you’re living in the metro. Little that people know is that Filipino culture is actually a fusion of different cultures due to its colonial past. The Philippines used to be a Spanish colony for more than 300 […]

November 27, 2020
Boracay Reopening to Local Tourism: What You Must Know Before your Trip (Covid-19)

From 2frenchinmanila: Please note that this article was written for Boracay's reopening in 2020. Since October 1, 2020, the Philippines reopened Boracay for tourists from all over the Philippines. Meaning that even foreigners, like us, living in the country can enjoy local tourism. Reopening a top tourist destination amid the covid-19 pandemic is obviously accompanied […]

November 2, 2020
Travel Almost for Free in the Philippines for 1 Year (2020 – 2021) – Air Asia Deal UNLI Flight Pass

If we told you, for one year, you could travel anywhere in the Philippines anytime you want. Would you get this deal? Well we would! Which is why we decided to avail the Unlimited Flight Pass that AirAsia, one of the most famous local budget airlines in the Philippines, launches. In an attempt to re-boost […]

July 31, 2020
How is Manila Life during General Community Quarantine? (with Videos)

Bonjour Philippines! Millions of people have been impacted by the community quarantine’s measures announced by the Philippine government in mid-March. Starting with the main island of Luzon, it soon became nationwide. We thought of going back to France to be close to our family, but we were not sure that it would be easy to […]

April 7, 2019
9 Reasons Why Living in the Philippines is Amazing

The first time we went to the Philippines, we explored its provinces and its many islands. Now, we've even settled in its main city: Metro Manila. And since, we live here. We've seen many friends, coming from Europe, traveling here. As the Philippines is becoming a very popular travel destination. If you haven't seen our […]

March 17, 2019
Top 6 Must See Places to Visit in Paris, France — Special Tips Included!

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and it's not because we're French that we're saying so :p Organizing your scheduled visit can quickly become complicated, especially if you have a short stay. So, we listed the 5 must-see places to visit in Paris. 1. THE EIFFEL TOWER What would Paris […]

March 10, 2019
Is the Philippines a safe place to travel or even, to live?

One of the many questions we receive from friends and foreigners who want to visit the Philippines, is: “is the Philippines safe?”. As you know, we used to live in a foreign country, in France, and unfortunately, when foreign media were talking about the Philippines. It was mainly about drug warfare, terrorism and poverty. So, […]

February 26, 2019
Best safe and cheap places to stay in Paris: tips for Filipinos planning their trip

Here you go, your tickets for Paris are now booked and it’s time for you to look for a cool place to stay! Problem, your budget is really tight and you know that you will not have a lot of choices. Also every day your mom tells you that Paris is dangerous, that you'll end […]

February 18, 2019
When is the best time to visit Paris if you are coming from the Philippines?

Often people are asking us: when is the best time to visit Paris? Thing is that each season offers its own pros and cons. To help you prepare for your vacation, check out the summary below. Where we describe season by season what are the things to know when you visit Paris. January - February […]

February 7, 2019
French living in the Philippines, their insights on: Family & Independence

Born and raised in France, living in the Philippines is a real culture shock. If you are Filipino or French, there is no reason to get offended here. Both countries have their own identity and choosing between them only depends on you. What we want to do here is only to express our own insight. […]

January 31, 2019
Manila Bay Now: A Battle for the Environment. Can we swim?

Before visiting the Philippines, a lot of foreigner friends are asking us: “can we swim in the sea of Manila?” Just like what they do in Bondi Beach in Sydney, or the Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, basically a beach in the city? It iIt is not advisable today: the waters of Manila Bay […]

January 23, 2019
10 French Phrases Used by Filipinos (Some are really funny)

When living in Manila for a year, we met several Filipinos who said some French words or expressions that they know, whether from the phrases they heard from TV/movies, or something they picked up from a French speaker. Some of them were just the basics, which are always good to know if you speak with […]

January 12, 2019
Why did we quit France and choose to live in the Philippines? 5 reasons

We get all kinds of questions since we started out our journey here in the Philippines, but this is probably the most asked one. Whether French or Filipino friends, everyone is asking us — “Why did you choose to live in the Philippines?”  In France, they think we’re living in an exotic jungle. More than […]

January 12, 2019
Welcome on 2frenchinmanila.com!

Hey guys! You might have seen us on social media through our videos 😊 Or maybe, you don’t know us at all. In both cases, welcome to our blog! In a nutshell, we are two French friends who decided to experience life in the Philippines. Today, we are living in Manila, its capital. Therefore, 2frenchinmanila! Click […]

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