LIST: Visa-free countries to visit to enjoy the winter season
In a tropical country such as the Philippines, Filipinos can only dream of experiencing what it's like to enjoy the winter season.
While there's the option of getting plane tickets and packing your bags to travel to other countries that have winter, some require travelers to go through the hassle of getting a visa before they can step foot into the territory.
But fret not as there are some countries where you can admire the winter wonderland that are visa-free. Take your pick below:
Hong Kong
Hong Kong winters from December to February offer a pleasant escape from the Philippines' warmer climate. Although there's no snow, temperatures drop to 15-19 degrees Celsius.
This makes it the perfect time to enjoy activities you normally can't do under the sweltering heat, such as going to carnivals or theme parks and hiking to gorgeous nature scenery.
Hong Kong is only visa-free for transit, tourism, or business for Filipinos if they stay in the country for no more than 14 days.
Taiwan
Taiwan experiences a cool winter from December to March, with temperatures occasionally dipping to 13 degrees Celsius. However, snowfall in urban areas like Taipei is rare due to Taiwan's subtropical climate.
But if you really want to know what it's like to make a snowman or engage in a snowball fight, snow can be found in certain mountain ranges tucked away in the eastern and central parts of the country. Some of these include the Yushan, Xueshan, Hehuanshan, and Yangmingshan mountains.
Under the current policy, Filipino citizens do not need a visa to enter Taiwan as long as they only stay for up to 14 days.
Jeju Island in South Korea
While Jeju Island is known for its beaches during the summer, the place is just as awe-inspiring during the winter as you can enjoy snow from late November in Hallasan Mountain.
But if the cold weather is getting a little bit too much for you, the island still has a temperate climate in other areas and is warmer than in Seoul and the rest of the country. The weather is still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
Filipino tourists can enter the island without a visa and can stay for up to 30 days. Do note that tourists are not allowed to travel to other regions outside the island.
Mongolia
The winter season in Mongolia lasts from November to March, with the coldest months being December to February. During this time, you'll be able to witness landscapes covered in snow and rivers becoming frozen as temperatures can drop to -30 degrees.
While it may sound too much for first-timers, braving the cold weather is worth it as you get to participate in cultural events like ice festivals, try exciting activities like dog-sledding, and relax in rejuvenating hot springs.
Visas are not required for Filipinos visiting Mongolia for a short-term stay of up to 21 days.
Hanoi and Sa Pa in Vietnam
Sa Pa is a town in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains of northwestern Vietnam, and is popular with tourists for its terraced fields that look magical when covered in snow.
Here, temperatures can drop to 0 degrees. It's recommended that you do some trekking to soak in the scenic views of snow covering the entire villages and mountains.
If you want a more urban setting, you can visit Vietnam's capital Hanoi, but keep in mind that the weather can be very chilly with winds that pierce through even the thickest layers of clothing. The average daytime temperatures range from 14-19 degrees Celsius, but nighttime temperatures can drop as low as 6 degrees Celsius.
Still, the cold is worth it if you want to enjoy winter festivals and more.
Philippine nationals can stay in Vietnam for up to 21 days without a visa.
