
Following on the heels of the country's dismal ranking on a global traffic survey, comes a piece of good news.
World travel website Big 7 Travel has adjudged the Philippines as the second Most Instagrammable Place in the World out of 50 countries for 2021.
Taking the top spot is Japan, with the website saying: “Take a look at Instagram and your mind will be blown: more than 53 million #tokyo hashtags reveal why this city is the most Instagrammable place in the world for 2021.”
Tawi-Tawi / Photo by: the_philippines (pstrjasper, IG)
As for the Philippines, they wrote, “Home to incredible natural wonders like an underground river and tranquil rice terraces in addition to a vibrant culture and history spanning several millennia; and over 7,500 islands - the Philippines as a whole [is] extremely Instagrammable.
“From the bustling capital of Manila complete with colorful colonial streets to the absolute oasis of Boracay, the gram opportunities here are endless.”
The results are based on the number of hashtags per destination, social media survey, and feedback from the website's editorial team.
Tawi-Tawi / Photo by: the_philippines (anaknimayon, IG)
Rounding up the top 10 are Paris, France; New York City, US; Istanbul, Turkey; Dubai, UAE; Havana, Cuba; Sydney, Australia; London, England; and Chicago, Illinois.
Other countries that have made it to the list are Singapore; Madrid, Spain; Berlin, Germany; Toronto, Canada; Hong Kong; Santorini, Greece; Taiwan; Milan, Italy; Moscow, Russia; and Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Prague, Czech Republic; Stockholm, Sweden; and Seoul, South Korea, among others.
“There's no doubt the Covid pandemic has brought about a new appreciation for travel. With many around the globe eager to pack their bags and head to the next bucket list destination, those Insta-worthy shots are sought after now more than ever,” Big 7 Travel wrote.
“Whether you aim to capture the cultural allure, scenic beauty or mouthwatering food of a destination, this list has you in mind.”
Bohol / Photo by: the_philippines (markgoesto, IG)
The Philippines has earned many travel accolades last year despite the lack of tourism activities because of the pandemic.
Big 7 Travel in November listed Palawan and Boracay as among the most beautiful places in the world, ranking eight and 18th, respectively.
Boracay / Photo by: pinoytravelfreak (IG)
Both picturesque beaches edged out perennial tourist favorites like Venice, Italy, Cappadocia, Turkey, Angkor Wat, Cambodia, and Paris, France (24th)
Boracay was hailed for its “tranquil beaches, casual nightlife, and lush tropical scenery,” while Palawan was commended for its “immaculate string of islands.”
Palawan / Photo by: traversephilippines (emmett_sparling, IG)
Wonder what were the other travel recognitions that the Philippines had won last year? Take a look at this gallery and start planning your itinerary: