Travel Destination Rating Criteria

Welcome to my Travel Destination Rating System—AKA the part where I break down why I loved (or didn’t love) a place, beyond just the pretty photos on your feed. Every location I visit goes through a simple but effective scoring system so readers know exactly what’s worth visiting, what’s just “meh,” and what’s better left off your itinerary. 

All destinations are rated on a 1–10 scale, and yes, I tend to be on the positive side—so a 1 is basically “never again,” and a 10 is “book your flights NOW.”

What I Consider When Rating Destinations

1. Scenery & Attractions
How stunning is the place? Is it Instagrammable? Does it offer a mix of iconic spots and hidden gems?

2. Accessibility

Is it easy to get around? Are transportation options convenient or a headache? Did I lose my patience along the way? (It matters.)

3. Vibe & Atmosphere

Some places feel magical, others feel… stressful. I consider the energy of the location, the friendliness of the locals, and the overall comfort and safety.

4. Food & Culture

Is the food scene worth traveling for? Does the place offer cultural experiences you’ll actually remember?

5. Value for Money
You deserve experiences that are sulit. I consider whether the trip feels worth the expenses—from activities to food to transportation.

My Travel Destination Rating Guide

10 – Unforgettable: A must-visit. Magical. Worth every peso and every step.
9 – Fantastic: Almost perfect; highly recommended.
8 – Memorable: Great experience with small areas for improvement.
7 – Good: Enjoyable, but not life-changing.
6 – Decent: Okay if you're already in the area.
5 – Average: Pretty standard; nothing too special.
4 – Disappointing: You can skip it.
3 – Below Average: Few redeeming qualities.
2 – Poor: Lots of issues, little reward.
1 – Not Recommended: Save your time and money.

Transparency Note: If a travel experience is sponsored or supported by a brand, I’ll clearly indicate it in the post. Rest assured, my rating stays honest—no sugarcoating, no fake hype.