For a lot of Filipino travelers, Batanes is a dream destination. Its remote location, stunning vistas, and captivating cuisine are definitely tempting. It’s no wonder more and more people are heading over to what's been dubbed as the New Zealand of the Philippines. If you plan on heading over, then here's a quick guide on what to expect:

There are quite a number of things to see in the Batanes group of islands, so staying there for a few days certainly isn’t out of line. Some of the sights you can see include:

The Basco lighthouse. Built in the 2000s, it’s one of the province’s most recognizable landmarks as it has been featured prominently in advertisements and photographs. Its main draw is its location, as visitors are treated to a spectacular view of the sea.

The Dakay House. The distinctive Ivatan houses are immediately recognizable, and you can walk amongst them in most of Batanes’ villages and towns. However, if you’re looking for one with history behind it, head to Sabtang Island. The Dakay House is the oldest house in Batanes. Built in 1887, it was the only survivor of an earthquake that struck the island in 1918.

San Carlos Borromeo Church. Located in Batan Island, the San Carlos Borromeo Church was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines because of its beauty and excellent state of preservation. Aside from that, the church was also where the Katipuneros raised the flag to claim Batanes during 1898.

Vayang Rolling Hills. These hills are a perfect spot to enjoy a view of the West Philippine Sea, and they’re not bad to look at as well. Named because they look like an endless wave, the Vayang Rolling Hills are definitely a sight to behold.

You’ll probably work up an appetite from all the traveling you’ll be doing. It’s nothing to worry about though, as Batanes has a number of delicacies you can try out.

You can try out uved balls - made out of meat, fish, and the base of a banana tree. It’s seasoned with onion, garlic, and salt and pepper. Batanes also has its own version of laing called vunes. It’s made of preserved gabi,cut and minced and then cooked together with pork and patola.

If you’re looking for more familiar fare, you can try out the sinigang na lechon in Basco’s Octagon Restaurant. Italian food is also served in Casa Napoli, also located in Basco.

If you’re looking to explore Batanes but find it a bit difficult to pick a place to stay, we’ve got your back. Here’s a list of hotels that you can check out once you hop on that plane to the beautiful islands of Batanes.

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants to lie down immediately after a flight, then definitely book a room at Nathaniel’s Lodge. It’s just a five-minute car ride from the Basco Airport, and less than 20 minutes if you decide to walk.

The lodge is also a great starting point for further explorations. It’s only 16 minutes away from the San Carlos Borromeo Church by car. If you’re looking to see the Dakay House, it’s only a one-hour car ride away. It’s also less than 30 minutes away from the port, so you don’t need to travel long if you want to visit the other islands.

Rates. You can book a triple room with breakfast for P2700, inclusive of breakfast. If you want a double room with breakfast, you can book it for P2000. However, you can get a 5% discount if you stay for a minimum of two nights.

This cozy accommodation is also a short walk away from the Basco Airport, so you don’t have to worry about a long car ride. You can also get to sites like the San Carlos Borromeo Church and the Dakay House in an hour or less from the inn - so, that’s your first day in Batanes sorted. The inn is also happy to arrange tours for you if you’re so inclined.

Rates. You can book a room at P2500. However, rates may change depending on availability.

Batanes may not be the first place you think of when thinking of dive spots, but it definitely has those on offer as well. If you’re there for the diving, stay at the Dive Batanes Lodge and Restaurant. You can get PADI diver certification, and their eco-scuba diving program promotes marine life and environment preservation. Diving not your thing? The lodge is just a 14-minute drive from the Vayang Rolling Hills if you’re looking for an activity above water.

Rates. Room rates start at P2945, inclusive of breakfast. However, rates may change depending on availability.

One of the attractions of Batanes is that it hasn’t been too modernized. If you’re looking for an experience that’s closer to the ground, check out the Panisanan Du Vatan. It’s a homestay accommodation, so you get to spend the night pretty much the same way the people of Batanes do. The Panisanan Du Vatan is also just a short drive away from the Vayang Rolling Hills.

Rates. Room rates start at P2375. However, rates may change depending on availability.

Like all the previous hotels, the Savatan Homestay isn’t that far from the Basco Airport. It’s another accommodation that lets you experience Batanes the same way a local would. The Savatan Homestay is also less than 10 minutes away from the Basco lighthouse if you’re heading there by car. It’s going to take you less than 30 minutes if you decide to walk all the way there.

Rates. Room rates start at P2660. However, rates may change depending on availability.

Can’t wait to go to Batanes? Use Traveloka to book these hotels!