Want to travel the world without leaving the country? You actually can.
If you’ve been searching for places in the Philippines that look like other countries, this guide gives you a straight answer: there are stunning local destinations that closely resemble iconic spots around the world.
From New Zealand-like landscapes to Maldives-style islands, these foreign-looking places in the Philippines prove you don’t need a passport to experience global vibes.
Let’s get into it!
Key Takeaways: Philippines Destinations That Look Like Other Countries
- The Philippines has many places that look like other countries, offering international-style scenery without leaving the country.
- You can experience destinations similar to New Zealand (Batanes), Maldives (Palawan resorts), Japan (Baguio), Thailand (El Nido), and Hong Kong (Binondo) locally.
- These spots are ideal if you’re searching for where to go in the Philippines that feels like abroad but wants a more budget-friendly option.
- Many of these destinations are spread across different regions, making it possible to plan region-based travel trips (North Luzon, Visayas, Palawan).
- Visiting during the dry season and off-peak days gives you better views, fewer crowds, and a more “international” travel feel.
What’s Inside
- Venice Grand Canal Mall (Taguig) – Venice, Italy
- Batanes – New Zealand
- Sirao Flower Garden (Cebu) – Netherlands
- La Paz Sand Dunes (Ilocos Norte) – Desert Safari, Dubai
- Coron Bay (Palawan) – Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
- Binondo (Manila) – Hong Kong
- Bamboo Eco Park (Baguio) – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan
- Miniloc Island (El Nido) – Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
- Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort (Palawan) – Maldives
- Cadapdapan Rice Terraces (Bohol) – Sapa Valley, Vietnam
- Quick Travel Tips Before You Go
- Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Leave the Country
- FAQs: Places in the Philippines That Feel Like Abroad
1. Venice Grand Canal Mall (Taguig) – Venice, Italy
@rampasadas Sobrang Ganda pala dito sa mala Venice Italy Vibes na Pasyalan sa Taguig City. đź“ŤVenice Grand Canal Mall – Upper McKinley Rd., Taguig City #TaguigCity #VeniceGrandCanalMall ♬ original sound – Venture Vlog
Video Source: @rampasadas on TikTok
There’s a spot in Taguig that instantly gives off European vibes the moment you arrive—it feels like a small slice of Venice in the city. Venice Grand Canal Mall is inspired by Venice, Italy, with colorful facades, charming bridges, and a canal where you can ride a gondola.
It’s also one of the easiest foreign-looking places in the Philippines to visit if you’re in Metro Manila and want a quick escape that feels like you’ve traveled abroad.
What makes it stand out:
- Venice-inspired architecture and canal layout
- Gondola rides that mimic the real Venice experience
- Romantic, European-style ambiance
What to do:
- Ride a gondola along the canal
- Explore the scenic walkways and bridges
- Dine or shop while enjoying the atmosphere
2. Batanes – New Zealand
Batanes is often the first place that comes to mind when talking about landscapes that don’t feel like the Philippines at all.
The Vayang Rolling Hills stretch endlessly, cliffs drop into the ocean, and everything feels quiet and untouched—very similar to New Zealand’s countryside.
What makes it stand out:
- Wide-open green landscapes
- Dramatic coastal views
- Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
What to do:
- Visit Marlboro Hills
- Explore Ivatan stone houses
- Take in the coastal views by bike or van
3. Sirao Flower Garden (Cebu) – Keukenhof, Netherlands
Bright, colorful, and undeniably photogenic, Sirao Flower Garden gives off strong European flower field vibes.
While it’s not as vast as the Netherlands’ tulip farms, the neatly arranged blooms and vibrant scenery create a similar visual experience.
What makes it stand out:
- Rows of colorful flowers
- Scenic viewpoints
- Picture-perfect installations
What to do:
- Visit early for softer lighting
- Take photos around the garden
- Pair with other Cebu highland spots
4. La Paz Sand Dunes (Ilocos Norte) – Desert Safari, Dubai
La Paz Sand Dunes in Ilocos Norte is one of the most unexpected landscapes in the country. Instead of beaches or forests, you’ll find waves of sand stretching across the horizon.
It’s the closest thing to a desert experience locally, and it genuinely feels like you’re somewhere in the Middle East.
What makes it stand out:
- Expansive sand dunes
- Dry, rugged terrain
- Adventure-focused activities
What to do:
- Ride a 4×4 across the dunes
- Try sandboarding
- Visit during sunset for dramatic views
5. Coron Bay (Palawan) – Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Coron Bay’s towering limestone formations rising from emerald water instantly bring to mind Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay.
It’s one of the most breathtaking coastal views in the Philippines—and one that feels undeniably international.
Related: 14 Fun and Thrilling Things to Do in Palawan
What makes it stand out:
- Limestone cliffs and rock formations
- Calm, clear waters
- Scenic island clusters
What to do:
- Go island hopping
- Kayak through lagoons
- Snorkel in coral-rich waters
6. Binondo (Manila) – Hong Kong
In the middle of Manila, Binondo offers a completely different atmosphere. It’s busy, vibrant, and filled with culture—very similar to parts of Hong Kong.
As the oldest Chinatown in the world, it’s a mix of history and modern city life.
Related: Explore Binondo: 15 Must-Try Places to Eat in Binondo
What makes it stand out:
- Bustling streets
- Authentic Chinese restaurants
- Dense urban energy
What to do:
- Go on a food crawl
- Walk along Ongpin Street
- Visit temples and heritage spots
7. Bamboo Eco Park (Baguio) – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan
If you’re looking for something calm and nature-focused, Bamboo Eco Park offers a refreshing change of pace.
With its bamboo-lined pathways and quiet surroundings, it gives off a Kyoto-like feel—simple, serene, and grounded in nature.
What makes it stand out:
- Bamboo walkways
- Peaceful environment
- Cool mountain climate
What to do:
- Take slow walks through the park
- Capture minimalist nature shots
- Enjoy the calm atmosphere
8. Miniloc Island (El Nido) – Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Miniloc Island is one of those places that feels almost unreal. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water, it closely resembles Thailand’s famous Phi Phi Islands.
What makes it stand out:
- Hidden lagoons
- Emerald waters
- Dramatic rock formations
What to do:
- Visit Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon
- Snorkel in clear waters
- Enjoy a resort-style island stay
9. Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort (Palawan) – Maldives
If you’ve been dreaming of the Maldives, Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort in Palawan offers a similar experience much closer to home.
It features overwater villas, clear blue waters, and a peaceful island setting perfect for swimming, kayaking, and a quiet luxury escape.
What makes it stand out:
- Overwater accommodations
- Clear, calm seas
- Exclusive island vibe
What to do:
- Relax in private villas
- Swim in crystal-clear waters
- Enjoy a quiet island escape
10. Cadapdapan Rice Terraces (Bohol) – Sapa Valley, Vietnam
For something more laid-back and scenic, Cadapdapan offers a countryside view that feels similar to Vietnam’s Sapa Valley.
It’s less crowded than other terrace destinations, making it feel even more special.
What makes it stand out:
- Layered rice terraces
- Mountain views
- Quiet surroundings
What to do:
- Visit during sunrise or sunset
- Take scenic photos
- Explore nearby waterfalls
Quick Travel Tips Before You Go
To make the most of these foreign-looking places in the Philippines, keep these in mind:
1. Plan Ahead
Some locations (like Batanes) require careful scheduling due to weather conditions.
2. Travel Off-Peak
Avoid crowds and get better photos by visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons.
3. Support Local Tourism
Choose local guides, eateries, and accommodations whenever possible.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Leave the Country
Traveling abroad is exciting, but sometimes, you don’t have to go that far.
These destinations show that you can experience landscapes, culture, and views similar to other countries right here in the Philippines. Whether you’re after beaches, mountains, or city vibes, there’s always a place that gives you that “out-of-the-country” feel.
So if you’re planning your next trip, try exploring local—you might be surprised at how far it takes you.
FAQs: Places in the Philippines That Feel Like Abroad
What Philippine destinations look like famous countries abroad?
Several places in the Philippines resemble well-known international destinations, including Batanes (New Zealand), Coron Bay in Palawan (Ha Long Bay, Vietnam), Miniloc Island in El Nido (Phi Phi Islands, Thailand), and Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort (Maldives).
Are there foreign-looking places in the Philippines in Metro Manila?
Yes. Binondo in Manila offers a Hong Kong-like city experience, while Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig recreates the canals and architecture of Venice, Italy. Both are easily accessible for quick getaways.
What island destinations in the Philippines feel like Maldives or Thailand?
Miniloc Island in El Nido offers Thailand-like limestone cliffs and lagoons, while Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort in Palawan provides overwater villas and crystal-clear waters similar to the Maldives.
Is there a desert-like place in the Philippines?
Yes. La Paz Sand Dunes in Ilocos Norte offers a rare desert-style landscape with rolling sand dunes, often compared to a Dubai desert safari experience.
