Have you experienced going on a road trip around the Philippines in a Toyota Fortuner? Provided that Waze doesn’t get you too lost, it’s a really fulfilling experience.
The great thing about going on a road trip in many Asian countries is that it’s very feasible, affordable, and there are usually plenty of routes to choose from. As they say, the journey matters more than the destination! From the scenic views to the car karaoke sessions you can experience with your co-passengers how can you not want to be on the road right now?
Bintulu-Miri Coastal Highway in Malaysia
Bintulu-Miri Coastal Highway is the perfect example of a route with wonderful roadside views. As you drive through the highway you will be able to spot a distinct settlement that’s been built on stilts. Not only that, you can feel the country vibes as you drive past dense forests as far as the eye can see. This 143-mile road gives you a really relaxing drive with light traffic. Just like any country road it is not as well maintained, but that’s sometimes that’s part of the fun.
Hokkaido Scenic Byways in Japan
Those scenes in the movies of lavender fields on the country sides of Europe, so beautiful and relaxing. Well you don’t have to fly all the way there to enjoy this view, you can fly to Japan and go for a drive in Hokkaido. Here there are six different byways and all of them offer similar views as if you were in the Swiss Alps in France. That’s not even the best part about these roads: somewhere along the way there are also hot springs. If ever you feel tired from all that driving just take a rest and let the waters soothe away that stress.
Phuket Northeast Loop in Thailand
Phuket is more than just another tourist paradise riddled with beaches. If ever you do get tired of the beaches maybe it is time to discover more of Phuket through their local Northeastern Loop. Here you have more than the sea to see, along the way you can find local fishing villages and shrimp farms. You also have a great view of the islands nearby and the limestone cliffs. This is a package you don’t find in the usual tourist guide brochure.
Patapat Viaduct in the Philippines
The Philippines has been gaining popularity in the tourism industry with the great beaches in various areas as well as the rising interest in hiking. More than that, the Philippines has a great collection of long stretching roads your car is waiting to conquer. The Patapat viaduct is just that, a long and winding road that doesn’t go through the terrain but flows with it. It is the best route to Pagudpud and the scenic mountain views will attest to that fact. Aside from the mountain views you also have a unique view of Pasaleng Bay. The road, as beautiful as it is, may be a challenge for some drivers especially if you are trying to enjoy the view at the same time. You know what they say though, “the harder the struggle the sweeter the victory”.
There are many other roads that can satisfy your need for adventure and speed, but these roads provide you with the perfect combination of scenic views and practicality based on where you are going. The views you are about to see are definitely unique and could tempt you to stop just for a few snaps, just hop in your car and enjoy the road ahead.
