‘Tis the season…for travel: Fun holiday experiences for all

As leisurely travel awakens from its slumber, Filipinos are starting to seize the opportunity to see the world and enjoy vacations especially after being cooped up for a long period. According to data from the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), the country's air passenger traffic volume in domestic and international flights increased more than fourfold to 13.2 million passengers in the first half of 2022, up from 2.95 million in the same period last year. 

The easing of travel restrictions means you can finally return to your favorite holiday destination or explore other locations for a new take on Christmas – a perfect gift for your loved ones, and a reward for yourself, too!

So, gather your family and friends and prepare to go local or international, as you visit these holiday spots that will surely make you feel jolly: 

Enjoy a holiday beach getaway in Apulit Island, Palawan. If golden sunsets and tranquility is your idea of a perfect Christmas, then a trip to this luxurious island is most ideal for you. Choose your own relaxing room from among the 50 traditional water cottages, interact with wildlife, take in the breathtaking scenery, or test your strength by rappelling down the nearby 60-meter limestone cliff. This Christmas, enjoy peace and fun while being close to nature in this tropical paradise.

Have an adventurous holiday in Samal Island. Escape the noise from the metro and enjoy a unique Christmas with loved ones by going to this island’s best places. Relax and unwind at Hagimit Falls or try an exhilarating hike at Mt. Puting Bato for a dazzling view of the island from above. Greet the Monfort Bat Cave’s nocturnal animals for the holidays as they emerge from their lair, or just bask in the sun and take a dip in the pristine waters of beaches and resorts.

Chill and ski in Hokkaido, Japan. If you like adventures while enjoying the sight of immaculate snow fields, then reward yourself with a holiday trip to Hokkaido. Visit the snow-blanketed ski resorts and enjoy the local onsen and take a bath in the warm and therapeutic hot spring waters after a long day spent in the cold. You can also see the Sapporo White Illumination, in which over 500,000 light bulbs enlighten Christmas-themed decor in Odori Park and trees lining some of the capital's main streets.

Go on a Christmas getaway to Iceland. Who doesn’t dream to see the majestic skies adorned with northern lights? Iceland offers the perfect place that gives-off a native Christmas spirit with its holiday markets, foods, and drinks, while glittering Christmas trees stand ground all over the place. It’s a dreamy winter wonderland, but if you like to take a break from the snow, take a dip in the warm waters of Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters.

Visit Santa’s home at Rovaniemi - Lapland, Finland. If “North Pole” vibes is what you’re going for, then booking a flight to this destination can be the best Christmas idea for you. In the Arctic Circle of Finland, you can see Santa Claus everywhere. In his red and white suit, the Christmas icon can be followed through reindeer-filled forests, where his elves prepare the toys. Lapland, as one of the most magical destinations, has an amazing 'Santa Park' where you can frolic in the unending fields of snow, and can be a dreamland not just for kids, but for kids at heart as well.

As you finish your holiday travel checklist, ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones wherever you go should be your main priority. Be worry-free before setting sail on your next Christmas adventure. AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar says, “Everyone deserves to experience the joy and magic of Christmas, regardless of the destination. We, at AXA Philippines, would like to help ensure that you are safe and secure as you travel around the world this holiday season, gathering new memories.”

Get a travel insurance that offers a significant financial safety net and emergency assistance against travel hassles, so you can truly enjoy your holiday trip. Smart Traveller by AXA provides convenient and the best-in-class international and local travel protection so you and your loved ones can experience your Christmas adventures worry-free. It offers one of the highest coverage for medical and evacuation expenses, highest postponement limit, as well as 24/7 emergency assistance.

With Smart Traveller, you can also get additional savings when purchasing for two or more people.  It is also Schengen-accredited, so your visa requirements are met. If you plan on taking multiple trips, AXA also offers annual plans for frequent travelers. 

Visit https://www.axa.com.ph/travel-insurance and discover what could make your holiday trips not just merry, but also safe and worry-free.