Why is it easy for Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia and Thailand to go on vacation to rich countries like Japan and the UK, but when it comes to the Philippines, it's difficult?

Matius Teguh Nugroho

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a boy who loves traveling, writing, and riding trains

Why is it easy for Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia and Thailand to go on vacation to rich countries like Japan and the UK, but when it comes to the Philippines, it's difficult?

Seriously?

First, try comparing The Philippines VS Japan or UK. You’ll find lots of interesting things that don’t exist in The Philippines. For example: 4 seasons, cleaner and more well-managed cities with extensive comfortable subway system, high speed trains, different culture, different food, different lifestyle.

Second, for some people, why bother visiting a country similar to ours? The three of them — Malaysia, Thailand, The Philippines — are gifted with tropical climate, tropical jungle forest, white sandy beaches, or turquoise water. So, it makes sense if Thai or Malaysian travellers looking for something different, or better.

Yup, Filipino travellers come visiting KL or Bangkok because both capitals are better than Manila. Better MRT system, better infrastructure, better city management, better tourism promotion & development.

We need to admit, that The Philippines have nothing really stand out for Malaysian or Thai tourists. Culture? I think they prefer Indonesia, Myanmar, or Cambodia. The Philippines has its own uniqueness like what I said on previous answer, but I think they’re not what most Thai or Malaysia people interested at.

Third, all things above give impact to the flight ticket. Flights from KL or Bangkok to Manila are still pricey, compared to flights to Indonesia, SG, Cambodia, Vietnam, or Myanmar. Sometimes, flights to Tokyo are equal to flights to Manila. Cebu Pacific is the only hope currently to get a promo ticket to The Philippines.