Monday, September 22, 2025

FOR PINOY GEN ZS: Budget-friendly destinations

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To help Pinoy Gen Zs see the world for less, digital travel platform Agoda spotlights three ‘budgetarian’ travel options at varying levels of budget-friendliness for travelers eager to explore wonders close to home or those ready to embark on one of their first adventures abroad.

All of course without breaking the bank.

“Everyone loves a great bargain, and Pinoy Gen Z are no exception, and will go the extra mile to seek out value for money option, particularly on activities and things they don’t want to miss out on, including travel,” Michael Hwang, Agoda’s Country Director Philippines, said.

“As the popular Gen Z meme goes, it’s sometimes challenging to splurge on the things we care about ‘in this economy’. It’s Agoda’s mission to help travelers – of all ages – see the world for less and these three destinations are sure to inspire Gen Z travelers, and probably many others as well.”

Bargain hunt in Baguio
Savvy savers, particularly the Gen Zs, are discovering the joys of thrifting — or ukay-ukay as it is known locally — for its blend of cost-effectiveness and eco-conscious ethos.

Baguio is not only known for its strawberry farms and cool weather, it is also famous for its ukay-ukay hotspots along Session Road and Harrison Road, offering tenacious bargain hunters a variety of pre-loved branded apparels and shoes at compelling prices.

Baguio is associated with all things cool, even in the literal sense thanks to its lower temperatures.

It makes Baguio a refreshing choice for an economical getaway.

Mountainside view of Baguio by night (Photo by Louise Mana)

With Agoda, travelers can book buses to Baguio for under P800 and accommodation starting around P1,000 per night.

Coupled with the savings from all the great clothing deals at the ukay-ukay, a trip to Baguio makes for an ideal escape for the stylish savvy spender.

Go off the grid in Iloilo
Agoda recently named Iloilo the most affordable tourist destination in the Philippines.

Iloilo made Agoda’s Cheapest Destinations in Asia list because of the average room rate of P2,800 throughout the months of April and May.

While it is most known for its beautifully preserved Spanish structures, to reduce Iloilo to merely a hub of colonial heritage would mean missing out on the full range of experiences on offer.

Beyond the historic cityscape, Iloilo’s Gigantes Islands boasts its own pristine white sand beaches, providing an affordable seaside vacation—the perfect opportunity for a heat-busting dip, too.

Meanwhile, adventure-seekers may opt for a refreshing trek through the Bucari Mountain Range, known as the “Summer Capital of Iloilo”, which offers cool temperatures and lush scenery.

Iloilo’s strategic location makes it a great hub to explore, making it a great value trip altogether for those with a bit more to spare.

Ready, jet set, Japan

Gen Zs, with their strategic budgeting, are not averse to spending on experiences and purchases that they perceive to be an investment for their personal growth (Nomura Research).

And where better to find your ‘ikigai’, or sense of purpose, than Japan! And perhaps the best part: temperatures in the Japan don’t usually peak above 30°C until July, making it a great destination to escape the summer heat.

Travelers can book a range of great activities via Agoda including the impressive interactive art installations at TeamLab Planets Tokyo.

The iconic torii of Japan (Photo by Syuhei Inoue)

Or rise to great heights and witness the Japanese skyline come to life at the Tokyo Tower Observatory.

These quintessential experiences are a must when visiting the Land of The Rising Sun, and each is available for under P2,000.

Airfare may be the primary financial consideration when planning a trip to Japan, but quick savings can be made by booking the accommodation and flight together on Agoda, often leading to additional discounts.

When it comes to accommodations, one of the capsule hotels in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district are ideal for Gen Zs. Or stay close to the airport in Narita, Japan’s destination that made Agoda’s Cheapest Destinations ranking.

Agoda helps travelers of any age see the world for less with great value deals on over 4.2 million accommodations globally, in addition to flights and activities. The latest deals can be found at agoda.com and on the Agoda app.

Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings  and employs more than 7,000 staff in 26 markets, dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel even easier.

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