SUMMER IS OVER, but you feel like you haven’t had enough of it.

Don’t fret! You can still tour the country even as the weather gets colder. Yes, it’s rainy season, and you can save those sipping-coffee-in-a-café-while-listening-to-jazz moments for the ber months. That means you still have the luxury of time to visit as many attractions and travel destinations as you can.

To help you out, we’ve listed 10 destinations you can visit even on rainy days:

1. Batanes Island

Weird suggestion? Nope. Aside from cheaper airfare and accommodation in the rainy months, going to Batanes in the lean season gives you the chance to enjoy this island province all to yourself. We went in July last year, and it was one hell of an experience. Getting stranded or having your flights canceled when there’s a low pressure area or an incoming storm can be stressful, but it depends on how you view it. As long as you have travel insurance, you should be okay. When we got stranded on the island last year, the insurance company paid for all our expenses during our extended stay. Personally, I don’t mind getting stranded, because it means more time to explore and discover this paradise-like province. Seeing and learning about the Ivatan houses, mingling with the locals, viewing the ocean from a lighthouse, and buying some sweets at the “honest store” are just some of the things that will enrich you as a person. I honestly wanna stay in Batanes for a month or so.

2. Vigan Heritage Village

Go up north and enjoy your solitary moments along the historical Calle Crisologo at nighttime. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vigan Heritage Village is one of the Philippine destinations that can take you back to the Spanish colonial past. The houses and their architectural design are a feast for the eyes, and stalls along the famous street sell must-have souvenirs. Ilocos beaches are awesome in summer, but their beauty doesn’t fade even after the hot months.

3. Baluarte

While in Vigan, drop by Chavit Singson’s Baluarte, where you can interact with and take unlimited selfies with animals such as ostrich, deer, tiger, python, miniature horses, koala, parrots, and colorful butterflies. Bring out the kid in you and have fun. We once went during summer and it was too freaking hot, so better visit Baluarte from June to February.

4. Boracay

Did you know it’s best to experience Boracay in the rainy months? No one gets tired of going to Boracay, but our favorite months are July to September, when it’s not crowded and the waters are free of unwanted green moss. The white sands, clear turquoise waters, colorful vintas, fresh young coconut, and picturesque views are just some of the reasons to visit. If you’re on a tight budget, the rainy season is the best time to book a flight because of the cheaper rates. And if you’re trying to move on from a recent break-up, or just want some time alone, the coming weeks are the perfect time to visit.

5. Gapuz Grapes Farm

Go down to La Union and get a California or other American state vibe in the middle of Gapuz Grapes Farm. The Philippines may be a tropical country, but grapes grow here, and the vines produce a lot. The farm became an accidental tourist spot after it went viral on social media. It started with only a few seeds planted in a small area, and has since become a favorite “pick and pay” destination where people pick ripe grapes and pay P300 for every kilo. How’s that for an experience?

6. Minalungao National Park

You may also visit Nueva Ecija and enjoy the view of the greenish river between huge rock formations at Minalungao National Park. It’s only a few hours from Metro Manila, so a whole day there will be enough to satisfy you.

7. Tagaytay Sky Eye

If you work in the metro and can’t afford a few days somewhere far, go road-tripping to nearby provinces that are home to numerous attractions. You can enjoy the cold weather in Tagaytay with a stunning view of Taal Lake and volcano. The best view comes from riding Sky Eye, the tallest and one of the country’s biggest Ferris wheels, at Sky Ranch. For P150, you can ride one of its air-conditioned gondolas. After the breathtaking view, warm up your taste buds with the famous, savory bulalo.

8. Panquil River Eco-Park

If you’re into nature, several hours from the capital region is the province of Laguna, home to Panquil River Eco-Park. For less than P1,000, you can enjoy the food and the eco-park’s activities, such as trekking the eco-trail to Ambon-Ambon Falls and water tubing. You’ll definitely love these, especially when it’s raining.

9. Cagbalete Island

The Philippines never runs short of new beach islands to discover. One of the relatively recent finds is Cagbalete Island, which also boasts white shorelines and clear emerald waters. It’s only around six hours from Manila. On your way, stop by Lucena City or Mauban and try the famous, delicious pancit habhab.

10. Kwebang Lampas and Puting Buhangin Beach

Four hours from Manila is another Quezon province destination that has been gaining popularity in recent years: Kwebang Lampas and Puting Buhangin Beach in Pagbilao, which you can enjoy in just one day. Like Calaguas in Bicol when it was first discovered, the place doesn’t have any expensive resorts and huts yet. So whenever you have time this rainy season, grab the chance to visit Pagbilao and frolic on its inviting white beach.

Photos from: expressmilestravel.com, iamaileen.com, tourylocos.com, facebook.com/ryerozu, airaaah.weebly.com, twistedlifeadventure.wordpress.com, stylewithinbyarey.tumblr.com, and mjmonteagudo.wordpress.com. Featured image is that of Boracay from the lens of Grant Orbeta.