Things To Do
in Allen
Allen is a coastal town located in the province of Northern Samar in the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun and sand. The town is also a major transport hub, with a port serving as a gateway to other islands in the region.
Allen is home to a mix of cultures, with influences from the Visayan and Waray ethnic groups evident in its traditions and cuisine.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.75
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat ride to nearby islands like Mararison and Malalison. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and scenic views as you island hop.
Have lunch on one of the islands, savoring local seafood. Spend the afternoon snorkeling and exploring vibrant marine life.
Return to Allen and relax with a beachside dinner. Watch the sunset while enjoying fresh local cuisine.
Begin your trek at the nearby mountains to experience stunning landscapes. Bring plenty of water and enjoy a refreshing hike.
Have a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint. Continue your exploration by visiting hidden waterfalls.
Head back to town and unwind at a local café. Reflect on your day's adventure over a delicious dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Rich culture and history
- Less commercialized compared to larger cities, offering a more authentic experience
- Access to various water activities such as diving and snorkeling
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to urban areas
- Potentially less access to healthcare facilities
- Transportation options might be limited
- Economic opportunities may not be as abundant as in larger cities
- Vulnerability to natural disasters due to its geographical location
Best Activities in Allen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse marine life at Apo Island or Balicasag Island.
Visit the beautiful beaches in Panglao Island and Alona Beach for sunbathing and water activities.
Take a boat tour to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Allen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Allen
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning natural backdrop for photography and a breathtaking view of a cascading waterfall.
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and South China Sea, ideal for capturing sunset and scenic photos.
Known for its golden sand and crystal-clear water, this beach offers an excellent setting for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Food in Allen
Allen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Adobong Pusit is a beloved Filipino dish made of squid marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, and then braised until tender. It is a must-try for seafood lovers. Recommended place to try: Ada's Seafood Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Pancit Cabagan is a flavorful noodle dish that originates from the Cagayan Valley. It features stir-fried noodles with an assortment of vegetables, meat, and a rich savory sauce. Locals recommend trying this dish at Nanay's Eatery.
Binakol is a traditional chicken soup cooked with coconut water, ginger, and lemongrass, giving it a delightful and distinctive flavor. Head to Mama's Carinderia for an authentic taste of Binakol.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Allen Public Market is a hub of local flavors where visitors can explore a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and street food. Don't miss the opportunity to savor skewered grilled meats, fish balls, and other Filipino street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Allen, Philippines, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles such as 'po' and 'opo' when addressing them.
Hospitality is highly valued in Allen, and it is customary to offer guests food and drinks as a sign of welcoming and generosity.
When visiting religious sites and in more traditional settings, it is respectful to dress modestly and avoid clothing that may be considered revealing.
Safety
Tipping in Allen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Allen, Philippines, tipping is not widely practiced. It is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants or for services like taxi rides.
Payment in Allen, Philippines is commonly done in cash. Credit card acceptance may be limited, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable to carry enough local currency for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Allen, Philippines is during the dry season from January to May. Expect warm and sunny weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
During the wet season from June to December, expect occasional heavy rainfall and high humidity. This period is not recommended for outdoor activities, but it can be a good time to experience lush greenery and enjoy off-peak travel with fewer tourists.
Allen at Night
Hiking in Allen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers and hikers looking for challenging trails.
Located in Batangas, this mountain offers scenic views and various trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Famous for its sea of clouds, this is one of the highest peaks in the Philippines and a popular hiking destination for adventurers.
A lesser-known spot offering a combination of river trekking and hiking in a serene and picturesque environment.
Not only a farm but a nature getaway, offering easy hiking trails and organic farm tours with breathtaking views.
Aiports
How to reach Allen by plane.
Located in Manila, it is the primary airport serving the Philippines, around 600 kilometers away from Allen.
Situated in Cebu, it serves both international and domestic flights, approximately 270 kilometers from Allen.
Also known as Francisco Bangoy International Airport, located in Davao City, around 860 kilometers from Allen.
Located in Pampanga, it is an international airport serving the Central Luzon region, about 700 kilometers from Allen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Allen, consisting primarily of speakers of the Cebuano language and showcasing rich cultural traditions.
A significant group in the region, known for their distinct language and culture, often involved in agriculture and trade.
An indigenous group primarily residing in Eastern Visayas, known for their vibrant festivals and language.
One of the major cultural groups in the Philippines, recognized for the influence of their language and customs across the nation.
A minority group in the Philippines contributing to commerce and trade, with a unique blend of Filipino and Chinese cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the Philippines, including Allen, where local leagues and community tournaments are commonly organized.
Volleyball enjoys significant popularity, especially among the youth and women’s leagues, with many schools and communities participating in tournaments.
Badminton is widely played in Allen, with both casual play and organized competitions being a common social activity.
Football has been growing in popularity in the Philippines, and local clubs and schools in Allen often participate in matches and tournaments.
Sepak Takraw is a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, popular in various regions of the Philippines, including Allen.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Allen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Filipino cuisine often features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Allen also offer vegetable-based dishes such as 'pinakbet' (mixed vegetable stew) and 'ginataang langka' (jackfruit in coconut milk). A recommended spot for vegetarian and vegan options is Inang Yayang's Vegetarian Kitchen.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities will find that traditional Filipino cuisine offers naturally gluten-free options like grilled seafood, fresh fruit, and rice-based dishes. When dining out, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs to ensure a pleasant dining experience.