A growing number of British holidaymakers are trading Spain's once-iconic island getaways for the pristine shores of Southeast Asia. Leading the pack is the Philippines, a tropical archipelago of 7,641 islands that is quickly becoming a favourite among UK travellers.
Majorca, long a staple of the British summer escape, is seeing a steady drop in UK arrivals. With rising costs, overcrowding, and a shift toward more meaningful travel, British tourists are seeking peaceful and authentic alternatives.
The Philippines, with its stunning landscapes, affordability, and English-speaking locals, is fast becoming the answer.
Majorca's Decline Signals a Shift in Travel Habits
Once the jewel of Mediterranean tourism, Majorca is losing its British audience. Early 2025 tourism figures show a 7.7 percent year-on-year drop in UK arrivals, with January alone seeing a near 30 percent fall.
Pedro Fiol, president of Balearic travel group Aviba, warns this trend could hit peak season revenues hard. British tourists, previously the backbone of Majorca's economy, are turning their sights toward destinations that offer better value and richer cultural experiences, according to a report of Travel and Tour World.
The Philippines Rises as a Long-Haul Favourite
While Spain contends with waning interest, the Philippines is gaining momentum. According to the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP), UK arrivals rose 4 percent in 2024, totalling over 160,000 visitors.
Search trends mirror this rise, with growing interest in destinations like Cebu, Bohol, and Palawan, famed for island-hopping tours, powdery beaches, and world-class diving.
Affordability remains a major pull. The Philippines offers rainforest hikes, remote islands, and vibrant marine life at a fraction of the cost of comparable European escapes.
Entalula Beach: The Best in Asia
Among the Philippines' top draws is Entalula Beach in El Nido, Palawan, voted the best beach in Asia and second worldwide in The World's 50 Best Beaches for 2025.
Framed by dramatic limestone cliffs, its white sands and crystal waters remain untouched by mass tourism. Accessible only by traditional Filipino boat, Entalula offers true escape far removed from the busy shores of the Mediterranean.
Daily island-hopping tours from El Nido include Entalula, Big Lagoon, and Snake Island. The surrounding reefs are a diver's paradise, rich with turtles, reef sharks, and colourful marine life.
Travel Tips for UK Holidaymakers
Flights: There are no direct UK flights to Palawan. One-stop routes via Dubai, Doha, or Singapore connect to Manila or Cebu. Domestic flights continue to El Nido or Puerto Princesa.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season runs from November to May, with January to April offering ideal conditions. The rainy season from June to September brings fewer tourists and lower prices.
Costs: Island tours cost around £25 per day. Beachfront stays range from £150 to £300 per night.
What to Pack: Reef-safe sun cream, mosquito repellent, waterproof phone cases, and light clothing are essentials.
A Changing British Travel Landscape
This rise in Philippine tourism reflects broader changes in how Brits travel. There is a growing desire for sustainable, experience-driven holidays that connect travellers with nature and culture.
As places like Majorca struggle to maintain interest, the Philippines is stepping up with a fresh offering—adventure, beauty, and value in equal measure.
With UK arrivals climbing and international recognition for its beaches, the Philippines is no longer flying under the radar. For British travellers in search of sun, serenity, and something beyond the usual, Southeast Asia's island jewel is calling.
