Travel Guide – Travel Up

Affordable Michelin Restaurants to try in Quezon City

The Philippines was recently named one of “the best places to travel in 2026 for food lovers” by the Michelin Guide. According to the prestigious guide, Filipino food is “finally claiming its global moment,” after the inaugural Michelin Guide for Manila & Environs and Cebu 2026 was released.

While majority of the high-end Michelin awardees in Metro Manila (including the elusive starred restaurants) are located in Makati and Taguig, the guide recognized seven restaurants in Quezon City. This includes three Bib Gourmand restaurants (Morning Sun Eatery, Palm Grill and Some Thai) that offer “exceptional cuisine at attractive prices.”

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 features Biking in Batanes

Looking for new travel inspiration this year? You might want to grab a copy of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026, a collection of 50 best destinations and experiences around the world for intrepid travelers for the year ahead.

Siquijor by Scooter | Where to stay: Republika Beach Bar & Baha Bar

Glittering blue-green waters and lush hills welcome visitors to the island of Siquijor. Formerly shrouded in stories of occult and witchcraft, Siquijor has a way of leaving travelers spellbound in a different way.

It’s been over a decade since I first visited and motorcycled solo around ‘the mystic island.’ Yet visions of the lonely tree-lined forest paths, the quiet coastal roads and empty beach coves still linger in my mind.

Flavors of Bali: Top Indonesian dishes and drinks you need to try

With its unique combination of spices and ingredients deeply influenced by the island’s Hindu culture, Balinese cuisine delights the senses. Salty, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors blend harmoniously on the plate, and each bite reveals careful technique and tradition.

Here are some unique must-eats to try in Bali, Indonesia.

Top spots to visit in Bali, Indonesia

Bali, known as “the Island of Gods,” is regularly ranked among the world’s top travel destinations. Of all destinations in Indonesia, Filipino travelers are especially attracted to Bali for its distinctive blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. In terms of vibe and cuisine, Bali feels comfortingly familiar, yet the spiritual atmosphere sets it apart.

The first time I visited Bali almost two decades ago, I was amazed at how such a vibrant tourist hotspot could simultaneously embrace modernity while remaining deeply rooted in culture, spirituality, and respect for nature.

LIST: MICHELIN Guide to the Philippines | Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026

The MICHELIN Guide has finally arrived in the Philippines, with nine restaurants in Manila and Environs & Cebu earning prestigious Stars, including one earning Two MICHELIN Stars in its debut year. The first Philippine edition for 2026 includes 108 establishments, including 90 across Manila and Environs and 18 in Cebu.

Two MICHELIN Stars: 1
One MICHELIN Star: 8
MICHELIN Selected: 74
Bib Gourmand: 25

This is a huge deal for the Philippine food scene. Whether or not you agree with the selection, if you like eating out, you’re probably curious to try some of the restaurants that were recognized and wondering where they’re located.

Scroll to the end for a savable and shareable list on social media for easy reference.

UNESCO Creative Cities in the Philippines

Originally published March 2024, updated November 2025

The Philippines now has five cities that are part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Dumaguete City has been designated Creative City of Literature, while Quezon City was named Creative City of Film, following its application to the UNESCO Creative City of Film Network in 2023.

Previously, Iloilo was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2023, while Cebu was given the title of Creative City of Design in 2019. Baguio City was the first Philippine city to join the UCCN network, having been named a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2017.

Must-visit free museums around Metro Manila

Looking for free museums to visit around Metro Manila? While there are a lot of different museums and art galleries you can visit around different cities catering to different niche interests, not all museums are free to visit.

Since October is Museums and Galleries Month, we thought we’d compile some of the best free museums we’ve personally visited around Metro Manila where visitors can learn about the history of the Philippines and appreciate the country’s art and culture.

Intramuros transportation & parking guide: How to get there and best ways to explore

Intramuros is one of the top tourist destinations in Manila for good reason. The Old Walled City is the premiere destination for any first-time tourists in transit to Manila and the go-to destination for entertaining balikbayans who might be home for the holidays.

There have been a lot of improvements to the area in recent months like the Pasig River Esplanade, new museums like Centro de Turismo Intramuros and new cafes in Intramuros, which might interest the general public.

Pinto Art Museum: What’s new in this contemporary art museum in Antipolo?

Pinto Art Museum is an art museum in Antipolo that showcases some of the best of the Philippines’ contemporary artists. This lovely museum is one of the top spots to visit in Antipolo, a hilly city just east of Metro Manila.

With art galleries housed in Mediterranean-inspired villas, sprawling gardens, and modern Filipino art exhibits, Pinto Art Museum offers a unique mix of art and culture in a secluded space just an hour or so from the busy city.

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