General Santos City is an unusual and unique destination that is perfect for the budget traveler. Located on the southern end of the archipelago of islands that forms the Philippines, General Santos City boasts moderate, typhoon-free weather and has a very warm and welcoming population. Nicknamed "Gensan" and "The Tuna Capital of the Philippines," General Santos City has much to offer any traveler. With low prices on food and lodging and a wide range of budget or free activities, Gensan is especially well-suited for the traveler looking to save a few dollars.

What to Do

The main attraction of General Santos City is the Tuna Festival, held each year on September 5th. Some of the best fishing in the world is located in the Philippines, and the tuna caught in General Santos City is exported around the globe. If you'd like to catch them at the source, and enjoy the once in a lifetime experience of clutching a massive, wriggling tuna in your arms, the Tuna Festival is a can't-miss event.

You can also ride tricycles around the city, or just take strolls to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, including lakes, waterfalls, caves and more. One great benefit to budget travelers is that observing the natural wonders surrounding General Santos City is free. For a wonderful example of these eye-catching natural features, visit Mt. Matatum, a 7,600 peak that dominates the nearby mountain ranges.

Where to Eat

Of course, while in General Santos City, you absolutely must eat some of the delicious fresh fish. Tuna and other fish items are available throughout the city. Small local restaurants, and even hospitable and generous residents, also offer other local delights such as charcoal-grilled dayana, tula soup and kinilaw, fresh fish in vinegar and shallots. Most of the restaurants are small, owned by locals, and specialize in regional delicacies with low prices that are perfectly suited to the budget traveler.

Where to Stay

General Santos City boasts a large variety of hotels and hostels. Two of the largest and best-known are the Phela Grande Hotel and the East Asia Royale. However, these hotels may not offer prices as low as smaller, more rustic, locally-owned hotels, hostels and other accommodations might provide. Therefore, the budget traveler may wish to explore local options on foot, instead of going with only the large chain hotels.

With natural beauty, hospitable and generous locals, a variety of free events, cheap food and affordable housing, General Santos City is the ideal travel option for adventurers on a shoestring budget!