As we step into the new year, it’s the perfect time to map out your adventures for 2024.
If 2023 was all about Revenge Travel to make up for lost time, 2024 is being hailed as the year for more personal travels.
Booking.com’s Travel Predictions for 2024 suggest a shift towards journeys motivated by a quest for deeper connections and self-discovery.
If you’re already planning your travels to find love or find yourself and need a little inspiration on where to go, here are some Filipino films that not only brought compelling stories of love but also highlighted how the destination itself, and the journey of getting there, is sometimes all that one needs to find what they’re looking for.
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PAGUDPUD, ILOCOS NORTE
Broken Hearts Trip (2023)
One of the entries for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), Broken Hearts Trip, is a story about five LGBTQ individuals who are given the chance to heal from their heartbreaks as they journey across the Philippines.
One of the spots they explored is Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte, often referred to as the “Boracay of the North.”
Accessible via land and air, Pagudpud is famed for its stunning beaches, including Maira-ira (commonly known as Blue Lagoon), Saud, and Pansian.
These beaches boast white sands and emerald waters, making them an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude with their thoughts or desiring more intimate moments with loved ones as unlike other Filipino beach destinations, Pagudpud tends to be less crowded, offering a tranquil escape.
SAGADA, MT. PROVINCE
Write About Love (2019)
In Write About Love, an aspiring writer sought help from a veteran yet disillusioned indie film writer to complete an unfinished script for a love story.
Their collaboration eventually led them to a pilgrimage to Sagada, where upon seeing the magnificent sunset and sea of clouds, allowed the two writers to reconcile their personal issues and figure out the ending for their own love stories.
For travellers who want a little more adventure and don’t mind putting in the work just to experience breathtaking views, there’s Sagada.
A small town in the mountains of Mountain Province, Sagada requires more than a half day’s ride from Manila and another couple of hours trekking to get to the top of Marlboro Hills, the highest point of the town and provides an unobstructed view of sunrise and a sea of clouds.
SAN JUAN, LA UNION
I’m Drunk I Love You (2017)
A beloved romantic drama film, I’m Drunk I Love You is all about taking the chance before it’s too late.
The movie revolves around two college best friends who embarked on a final road trip to San Juan, La Union, aiming to determine if their bond will remain platonic or evolve into something more.
While La Union, also known as Elyu, has earned its reputation as one of the Philippines’ top surfing spots, “I’m Drunk I Love You” shines a spotlight on the town’s laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Here, bars resonate with reggae beats, serve delectable food, and are adorned with eclectic decorations reflecting both local and foreign influences.
Beyond the shoreline (surprising as it may sound), you can explore more of La Union’s natural beauty by trekking to the impressive 40-feet high Tangadan Falls. With its unique blend of attractions, it’s no wonder La Union has become a go-to destination, providing a comforting retreat for many travelers.
