Gap Year Programs in the Philippines

With literally thousands of islands to visit, deciding where to go in the Philippines can feel a tad overwhelming. Where you decide to go depends on what kind of experience you are looking for. Bigger cities offer more internship opportunities, and volunteer opportunities can be found in big cities and rural areas. For adventure travelers, there are a variety of options for island hopping tours, which can help you narrow down your options. The best part is that you’re guaranteed to see beautiful views wherever you decide to go!

Manila. Manila is a bustling, fast-paced metropolis. Many visitors will end up here during their travels, since it is a common connection city. Although it has a reputation as a concrete jungle, it is worth a visit to explore all the activities it has to offer. Manila is considered the cultural hub of the Philippines, and has tons of cultural exhibits, shopping centers, delicious food, and bustling nightlife. Since it is a big city, many intern and volunteer opportunities exist in the area. 

Cebu. Cebu is an up-and-coming must-visit island in the Philippines. It is famous for its diving opportunities. Just off the coast of Cebu is Malaspascua Island, where you can swim with thresher sharks. Although much of Cebu is beautiful, many people live in poverty in Cebu City, and there are many volunteer opportunities to help the community. 

Boracay. Boracay is the “party island” and is a popular tourist destination. If you are looking for fun, stop by Boracay! It caters to all budget levels, so any traveler can have a good time here, lounging on white sand beaches, drinking cocktails, and eating a variety of food. Boracay is the place to go for a more laidback gap year in the Philippines, but there are opportunities for adventure as well! Go island hopping, jet skiing, snorkeling, and then wind down (or turn up) at a local bar or restaurant in the evening. 

Bohol. Bohol boasts a ton of unique natural experiences that showcase the Philippines’ biodiversity. One of Bohol’s most popular attractions is The Chocolate Hills. No, they are not made of chocolate (we wish!); they are intriguing mounds of limestone formations. After visiting the Chocolate Hills, you can take a river cruise, go dolphin watching, go snorkeling, or visit an animal sanctuary. Bohol is one place to start looking if you are interested in eco-volunteering.

The Philippines has been gaining in popularity because it has all the beauty of a Southeast Asian country, but with a very low price tag! It is quite difficult to find a job as a foreigner in the Philippines, so most visitors come for leisure travel or for volunteer and internship opportunities. Luckily, the cost of living is quite low in the Philippines, so your dollar can get you quite far. Since it is becoming a more popular travel destination, there are plenty of gap year programs in the Philippines. 

Adventure Travel. The Philippines is extremely biodiverse. There are endless beautiful natural sites to visit, and of course, exciting activities to do at each one. Must-do activities in the Philippines include island hopping, diving or snorkeling, ziplining, visiting picturesque rice fields, and swimming with whale sharks. Lounging on the beach is always an option as well!

Volunteering. In the Philippines, there is a sizable gap between the wealthy and the poor. Many communities need help in various ways, so there is a range of interesting volunteer opportunities. A variety of volunteer programs operate in the Philippines. As is the case with many countries in Southeast Asia, there are opportunities to teach. English is one of the official languages, so foreigners are not restricted to teaching English; many teach other subjects.

Environmental conservation volunteering is also a popular choice, since there has been developing interest in protecting the Philippines’ biodiversity, especially due to the boom in tourism. Many poor communities have rural medical clinics that are understaffed and will accept volunteers with appropriate experience. Volunteering in construction is also an opportunity that is offered by many volunteer programs. There is definitely no shortage of opportunities to volunteer in the Philippines! 

Internships. Interning is an excellent way to gain work experience, and interning abroad gives you the excuse to travel while doing so! The Philippines has abundant resources and a rapidly developing economy. Many internships in the Philippines are unpaid. There are plenty of internship opportunities in similar sectors to volunteer opportunities, that involve social work and helping the community. Most professional internships (for example, in business, development, finance, and health sectors) are based out of major cities. 

Costs. As with most countries, cost of living can vary depending on where you plan to visit or live. Larger cities such as Manila are the most expensive, but traveling and staying in the Philippines is still considered cheap. Budget travelers can get by for around 35 USD a day. An average meal out costs between $1.75-$6. Staying in a hostel will set you back around $7 a night. If you feel like splurging, $100 a night will get you a beautiful hotel room. Whether you are looking to go on a budget trip, or to travel luxuriously, Fund My Travel is a great resource to use. 

Accommodations. Since the Philippines is a tourist destination, there is a range of accommodation options, from shared dorm room-style hostels, to luxury villas. Many volunteer and intern programs allow you to stay in a host home, which allows you to have a truly integrative experience. It is quite easy to find apartment rentals in the Philippines, and the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Manila would be around 500 USD/month. 

Visas. For most travellers, a free 30-day visa is issued when you arrive in the Philippines. This visa can be extended for a fee, either at the airport upon arrival or at appropriate government offices. You will likely need to show an onward ticket to another destination in order to enter the Philippines. For more information, check out the GoAbroad embassy directory.

Safety. As with many popular tourist destinations, certain safety precautions should be taken. Gappers should pay attention to their personal security and belongings. Certain vaccinations are recommended. There are certain regions that have travel advisories due to high levels of crime (in particular, the far south). However, most areas, especially near popular tourist destinations, are very safe to visit.

Taking a gap year is an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking to live the island life during your gap year, the Philippines is definitely the place to go! Whether you’re relaxing, adventuring, or volunteering, you will have the opportunity to see beautiful beaches, swim in crystal clear waters, and interact with friendly locals, all on a reasonable budget. Really, what could be better? 

Now, let’s talk about the national treasure of the Philippines: karaoke. Karaoke is a well-loved pastime in the Philippines, so get ready to sing your heart out! Philippines gap years aren’t complete until you belt it out at least once. Everyone sings, regardless of how good or bad they may sound. Karaoke machines are a common item in many Philippine homes, and can also be found in many bars. You won’t be judged on your singing skills, as long as you are having fun! 

Karaoking, snorkeling, volunteering, interning, and just straight-up lounging, could all be a part of your gap year in the Philippines. Whatever you choose to do, if you’re in the Philippines, you’re guaranteed to see unbelievably beautiful sights, meet friendly people, and have a great time. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Are you looking for even more good reasons to take a gap year? Read 12 Gap Year Benefits Your Future Self Will Thank You For article!