How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Angeles City, Angeles, Philippines

1. Field's Avenue

Bustling street known for entertainment venues. Find authentic local spots nearby.

Local Gems: Explore lesser-known bars and restaurants off the main strip
Timing: Avoid peak hours (usually late at night) to dodge crowds and inflated prices
Research: Look for recommendations from locals or online reviews

Home to various shops and restaurants, often pricier than local markets.

Market Exploration: Visit nearby local markets for affordable shopping
Transportation: Use official taxis or ride-hailing services to avoid overpricing
Bargaining Skills: Haggle for better prices when shopping in the zone

Expensive and potentially overpriced helicopter tours of the city.

Alternative Views: Seek out affordable rooftop bars or viewpoints for panoramic vistas
Group Deals: Book group tours to share costs and avoid inflated prices
Comparison Shopping: Research multiple tour providers for the best rates

Popular bar area with inflated prices and tourist-focused venues.

Natural attraction with inflated prices for food and souvenirs.

Expensive and often low-quality food experiences.

Local Food Guidebooks: Use local guidebooks or online resources for authentic eats
Street Food Markets: Visit local markets for a wider selection of tasty treats
Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class to learn about local cuisine directly

Overpriced art museum with mediocre exhibits.

Free or Donation-Based Museums: Visit free or donation-based art spaces for a more affordable experience
Local Art Galleries: Support local artists by visiting their galleries
Cultural Workshops: Participate in cultural workshops to engage with art directly

Expensive fun run event with inflated registration fees.

Community Races: Join local races or running groups for lower prices
DIY Fitness: Create your own fitness routine using the city's parks and trails
Volunteering Opportunities: Join a local charity event or volunteer project instead

Expensive hot air balloon rides with questionable quality.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives: Discover other affordable ways to see the city from above
Group Discounts: Book with a group to negotiate better prices
Sunrise or Sunset Rides: Opt for off-peak hours (sunrise or sunset) to save on costs

Malls with overpriced goods and tourist-focused stores.

Expensive spa and massage services with questionable quality.

Local Spas: Find locally-owned spas for a more authentic experience
Group Packages: Book group packages to save on costs
Reviews and Recommendations: Research reviews and ask locals for recommendations

Overpriced ATV tours with limited exploration.

Self-Guided Tours: Create your own ATV tour using local maps
Rental Companies: Compare rental prices from various companies for the best rates
Custom Tours: Design a custom tour to suit your interests and budget

Expensive and potentially inhumane dolphin watching tours.

Whale Shark Watching: Opt for whale shark watching trips instead
Wildlife Sanctuaries: Support local wildlife sanctuaries and their conservation efforts
Responsible Tour Operators: Choose tour operators committed to responsible, ethical practices

Overpriced casinos with limited gaming options.

Local Casinos: Visit local casinos for a more authentic experience
Free Gaming Lessons: Take advantage of free gaming lessons to improve your chances
Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs to receive discounts and rewards

Expensive hotels with limited amenities.

Budget-Friendly Hotels: Find budget-friendly accommodations using travel websites
Hostels and Guesthouses: Stay in hostels or guesthouses for lower prices
Long-Term Rentals: Consider long-term rental options for extended stays