Destinations

SUBIC is cheapest destination for end-of-year holidays – Agoda

Travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodation options for Christmas and New Year’s Eve have many destinations in Asia to choose from, with Subic being the most affordable destination in the Philippines with an average room rate of 5,046.69 PHP per night.

Published

2 years ago

November 22, 2024

ZestMag.com Staff

Digital travel platform Agoda has announced its list of the most affordable holiday destinations for the end-of-year holidays. Travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodation options for Christmas and New Year’s Eve have many destinations in Asia to choose from, with Subic being the most affordable destination in the Philippines with an average room rate of 5,046.69 PHP per night.

Hat Yai, Thailand, leads the list as the most affordable on average in Asia with an average room rate of 2,699.39 PHP per night, making it the top choice for cost-conscious travelers in late December. Following closely are Surakarta, Indonesia, and Varanasi, India, with rates of 2,758.08 PHP and 2,875.44 PHP per night, respectively. These destinations provide a mix of cultural experiences and scenic beauty, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Michael Hwang, Country Director, the Philippines, at Agoda said: “The holiday season brings joy, cherished moments with friends and family, and the spirit of exploration. It’s also a time when expenses can quickly accumulate, making budget considerations crucial for travelers. At Agoda, we take pride in offering great prices, ensuring that with affordable flights, accommodations, and experiences, there’s more room in the budget for Christmas presents.”

To compile the Cheapest Destinations ranking, Agoda looked at the room rates of the ten most popular cities in each of the nine analyzed markets. Since the rank is based on averages, deal hunters are likely to find even lower rates in these and other destinations on Agoda.

The nine destinations are:

Hat Yai, Thailand (Average room rate: 2,699.39 PHP)
Whether it’s the holiday season or not, Hat Yai once again takes the crown in Agoda’s Cheapest Destination ranking. The lively Southern Thailand city, known for its markets and delicious street food, comes alive during the holiday season with festive decorations and local celebrations. The Kim Yong Market is the perfect place for some last-minute Christmas shopping, with unique gifts and a lively atmosphere.
Surakarta, Indonesia (Average room rate: 2,758.08 PHP)
Also known as Solo, Surakarta offers a rich cultural experience with its traditional Javanese arts and crafts. The city is home to the stunning Keraton Surakarta and the popular Pasar Gede market. During the holidays, visitors can enjoy traditional performances and local delicacies, making it an ideal destination for a culturally immersive end-of-year celebration.
Varanasi, India (Average room rate: 2,875.44 PHP)
Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, provides a spiritual and cultural journey. The Ganges River, with its famous ghats, offers a serene setting for reflection and celebration. As the year draws to a close, the city is adorned with lights and festivities, offering a unique blend of spirituality and year-end celebrations.
Dalat, Vietnam (Average room rate: 3,638.31 PHP)
Once again, Dalat is the most budget-friendly tourist destination in Vietnam. As Christmas and New Year’s Eve approach, Dalat transforms into a festive haven, with twinkling lights and joyful celebrations, creating an enchanting backdrop for unforgettable holiday memories. December typically brings cooler mountain air, ideal for an unforgettable end-of-year vibe.
Miri, Malaysia (Average room rate: 3,814.36 PHP)
Known mostly for its natural beauty, Miri might not be the first destination that springs to mind for a Christmas holiday. However, the city on the northern coast of Sarawak, in the island of Borneo boasts cultural diversity and offers a relaxing holiday experience. After exploring the Niah Caves or enjoying time at the beach, visitors can take in the Christmas decorations that light up Miri Times Square.
Subic, the Philippines (Average room rate: 5,046.69 PHP)
Subic, with its sun-kissed shores and adventurous spirit, is a tropical paradise for the holidays. Christmas is an extended festive season in the Philippines, and Subic comes alive with its family-friendly attractions and vibrant local markets, providing a joyful setting for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations by the sea.
Taitung, Taiwan (Average room rate: 5,868.25 PHP)
Budget-savvy visitors or domestic travelers wishing to escape the big cities during the year-end holidays are best off in Taitung. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich indigenous culture, Taitung is located on the easternmost part of Taiwan and is the first to witness the island’s sunrise, making it a popular spot for New Year’s celebrations. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular as a year-end destination, with several large-scale music festivals starting in November, attracting many visitors from afar.
Nagoya, Japan (Average room rate: 6,396.39 PHP)
Nagoya, a city rich in history and modern attractions, offers a unique holiday experience. Visitors can explore the Nagoya Castle and the bustling Sakae district while enjoying Nagoya’s popular and delicious cuisine Hitsumabushi (grilled eel) and Miso Katsu (pork seasoned with miso). The city’s winter illuminations and festive markets create a magical atmosphere, perfect for celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Yeosu-si, South Korea (Average room rate: 7,511.36 PHP)
Yeosu, a coastal city known for its beautiful scenery and maritime culture, offers a serene holiday escape. Visitors can explore nature on Odongdo Island or the admire the city landscape from a Yeosu Maritime Cable Car. The city is an ideal destination for holiday celebrations, with immersive experiences such as the La Terrace Winter Village theme park offering a magical Christmas atmosphere.

Agoda’s offerings include over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in a single booking. Ideal for a carefree end-of-year holiday.

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Destinations

Going Chinese in Pulilan, Bulacan

Craving for #chinesefood in #Bulacan? We tried the offerings of Lee Foo Panciteria #Pulilan, and we’re on the fence here (yes if no choice, no if you can go elsewhere).

Published

15 hours ago

July 28, 2026

M.D. dela Cruz Tan, MDC

We happened to be in Pulilan in Bulacan, and I had pancit craving. As if on cue, we passed by Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan, which – after we Google-checked – is supposedly one of the more frequently-visited Chinese restos in these parts of the province, so… of course we checked.

@outragemag Craving for #chinesefood in #Bulacan? We tried the offerings of Lee Foo Panciteria #Pulilan ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine

Una, this place is really, REALLY easy to find. Located along the Pulilan Regional Road in Barangay Cut-cot in Pulilan, this is right in the middle of the municipality.

Ikalawa, the resto is actually divided into three parts: one side is for those with reservations, another part is for walk-in diners, and another part is for events. If/when the resto isn’t full, only the main part (middle one) is kept open.

No, this isn’t some fancy resto. More like an airconditioned karinderya, complete with wooden tables and plastic chairs. Look-wise, it wasn’t dirty naman when we were there, so that’s a plus.

Ikatlo, the workers were friendly naman… and they moved fast – e.g. while waiting for our orders, we were given must-check peanuts, and since we finished what we got fast, our waitress was more than happy to accommodate us.

Ika-apat, now… how was the food?

The house specialty, the Lee Foo Chicken (₱265 for half, ₱495 for whole), looked like fried chicken with ketchup. Okay… the breading was okay since it didn’t overpower the meat. The chicken, too, was properly cooked, and it wasn’t dry. But it was tasteless overall; so the ketchup taste is what stays with you.

The Pancit Canton Bihon (₱255) had thin pancit noodles, almost as thin as the bihon. It didn’t have lots of sahog; instead, you’d notice the extenders (like kikiam, and so on). I like good pancit, I swear… but this isn’t one of them, sorry.

The weirdly-wrapped Hakaw (₱155) was small, so it was bitin.

And then there’s the Siomai Steam (₱155), which was, in a word, weird. The size was good, similar to those ₱10 siomais. But the way this was prepared was weird for us – e.g. like the meat was overwatered, and having a hard time staying solid, so that it was smudgy, and disintegrated in the mouth even without chewing. I suppose that, at least, it wasn’t disgusting taste-wise.

Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan is, we believe, popular. Like President in Chinatown, or a branch of David’s in some mall. To each his or her own nga naman. But for us, we’re off to look for other Chinese restos na muna as we head out in search of more lafangan venues.

Lee Foo Panciteria Pulilan is located at 159 Barangay Cut-cot, Pulilan, 3005 Bulacan Province. For more information, contact 0925 800 0168, or email leefoopanciteria@yahoo.com.

Travel

Treacherous beauty: Hiking at South Stack Lighthouse in Wales

#Lighthouse fever in #Holyhead, #anglesey via the #SouthStackLighthouse, as checked during this #LGBT trip to #Wales.

Published

4 weeks ago

July 2, 2026

M.D. dela Cruz Tan, MDC

Yes, tech has made many lighthouses redundant. Not that they’re no longer relevant. But navigation-wise, we know we have more advanced solutions. Which, perhaps not surprisingly, led to the reconfiguration of many of them.

In Holyhead, Anglesey in Wales, introducing the South Stack Lighthouse.

@outragemag #Lighthouse fever in #Holyhead, #anglesey via the #SouthStackLighthouse, as checked during this #LGBT trip to #Wales ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine

Una, you’d need a ride to be there. Some use private cars, as we did; others join tours; and others cycle to the place.

Ikalawa, what’s there?

The lighthouse itself is located on a small, rocky island off Holyhead. From afar, it looks like someone’s grand home; mansion-like. Accessible siya after you descend down 400 steep steps.

What will you see while there?

the former lighthouse engine room
the top of the lighthouse
South Stack is also home to breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins

Here’s an FYI: seasonal lang siya bukas.

This is a must-check for lighthouse lovers, of course. Historic, it was built in 1809 by Trinity House from the design of Daniel Alexander. 91-foot tall, it used to allow safe passage for ships on the Dublin–Holyhead–Liverpool sea route.

Another FYI: It is allegedly haunted, and has been visited by a team from “Most Haunted”.

The area housing the lighthouse is, itself, worth checking. There are trails for hikers or joggers or cyclists; though the same could be enjoyed by those who are there only to look for good shots.

Check when you’re in the area… even if you just pass by. Nice siya, promise.

But off we go for more LGBTQIA+ rampa…

Travel

Enjoying nature via trail hiking in Wales

Enjoying nature via #trail #hiking at #Snowdonia #SnowdoniaSlateTrail during one #LGBT visit in #Gwynedd, #Wales.

Published

4 weeks ago

July 1, 2026

M.D. dela Cruz Tan, MDC

When in Bangor, you’d be told often that among the best things to do is to hike. And among the must-check is the Snowdonia Slate Trail, which links the old slate-quarrying communities of Eryri/Snowdonia.

So… ayan na nga, even without the right outfit for hiking, but ayaw ma-miss ang chance to check the area, off we went.

@outragemag Enjoying nature via #trail #hiking at #Snowdonia #SnowdoniaSlateTrail during one #LGBT visit in #Gwynedd, #Wales ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine

Una, the circular route starts near Bangor/Porth Penrhyn. And you need a car or whatever to get to the starting point.

Ikalawa, the trail isn’t just for hiking. It’s also for biking or walking dogs. So you’d be sharing the 133-kilometer long trail with others.

Ikatlo, what’s there?

Mountains built by remnants from quarry sites, to start.

So… Gwynedd used to be known for slate quarrying, and among the biggest players is Penrhyn Quarry which is near Gwynedd, part of The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Now… with slate quarrying, around 75% of extracted material are inferior in quality, called overburden, and so becoming mineral waste. Here, they’re now mountains.

But the trail also shows views typically associated with Wales – e.g. rolling hills that go on forever, rock fences, sheep farms, canals with flowing water… and more.

Usually, sa matatag, people hike the Snowdonia Slate Trail for up to seven days, passing through Bethesda, Llanberis, and so on. But for others… it’s but an opportunity to commune with nature, in a way, while taking those must-have shots.

But we’re off for more LGBTQIA+ discoveries…