Here are my top 10 picks for first-time travellers looking to discover world-class destinations in the Philippines.
Coron, Palawan
Within the gorgeous province of Palawan is the mountainous island Coron, located farther north, Coron boasts similar gems as El Nido. Famous for crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling, powdery white sandy beaches, and inescapable postcard worthy landscapes. Like in El Nido, charter a small boat for day trips to explore the islands and lagoons.
Also known for being one of the top diving destinations in the world. As well as outstanding coral reefs, Coron Bay has around a dozen regularly dived and protected WW2 shipwrecks, lying at various depths between 15- 42 meters. The tropical paradise almost seems unreal.
Aside from diving, one stop that should not be missed by anyone visiting Coron is the breathtaking Kayangan Lake.
El Nido, Palawan
Located on the northern tip of mainland Palawan, El Nido is blessed with gorgeous off-shore islands, soaring limestone rock formations, pristine hidden beaches, aquamarine water and secret lagoons. Just to name a few.
The scenery here rivals other popular destinations in Asia like Ha Long Bay and the Phi Phi islands.
Travellers can charter a small boat or join organised tour groups for day trips including the most famous islands and lagoons within the Bacuit Archipelago.
Boracay, Aklan
This tiny island in the west Visayas region is ideal for beach-goers. Known for its powdery white sand, spectacular sunsets, crystal clear water and lively reputation, Boracay has long been a tourist hotspot Filipinos could brag about.
At 4 km long, White Beach, on the west side of the island, is one of the most popular beaches. In 2018 the Filipino government closed access to Boracay for six months due to a large scale pollution problem. Since reopening the island has a list of new regulations that include restricted boozing on the beach and a limited number of tourists per day, all while a renovation spree is ongoing.
For a panoramic view of the island, take a trip to Mount Luho, the highest point.
Cebu
The island of Cebu, in the central Visayas region, is considered a hub to access some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Philippines. If you are an underwater enthusiast, Cebu is your prime destination for getting up-close to whale sharks, spectacular coral reefs, and sea turtles.
Cebu showcases some of the best waterfalls in the Philippines. Visit MoalBoal and be sure not to miss a canyoneering tour through to Kawasan Falls in Badian.
For more stunning beaches, snorkelling and island life-ing, take a trip North to Bantayan Island or Malapascua Island.
While Cebu's greatest attraction is water activities, Cebu City is a metropolitan area with tourist attractions, like museums and cathedrals, upcoming eateries and shopping centres.
Bohol & Panglao Island
The island of Bohol in the Philippines central Visayas region runs at a slower pace, this destination showcases the country's natural beauty and heritage sites. The famous Chocolate Hills in Carmen is one of the most unique natural wonders on the island. This UNESCO protected site is a collection of 1,200 geological formations that turn brown in the dry season, resembling a landscape of chocolate Hershey’s kisses. Bohol is also iconic for their adorable Tarsiers, the world’s tiniest primates, endemic to the Philippines.
If that’s not enough, cross the bridge over to Panglao island to visit beautiful beaches, stunning resorts and diving sites then take a day boat to the Virgin Island (which is essentially just a sand bar to spend the morning on) and Balicasag Island.
Siquijor Island, Siquijor
A small island, located just off the shore of Negros Oriental, in the Central Visayas region has a reputation amongst Filipinos for witchcraft and healers. However, in more recent years Siquijor has transformed into a laid-back island paradise scattered with sunset decks and healthy eateries. Its also popular for snorkelling and diving, waterfalls and pristine quiet beaches.
Siargao Island
Siargao island is gaining more popularity in recent years as the country’s surf capital. Situated southeast of Manila in the province of Siargao del Norte. Siargao receives strong winds and currents from the Pacific Ocean. To every surfers delight this gives the island solid swells they can enjoy, check out the famous Cloud 9 point.
Batanes
Batanes is an archipelago province, situated in the Cagayan Valley region. It is the northernmost province and also the smallest. Batanes landscape is like nothing you’ve imagined for the Philippines. Made up of luscious, fluorescent green mountains and hills, a landscape similar to New Zealand.
The culture here is rich and running at a much slower pace than the rest of the world. Villages, cafes, homestays make the island feel personal.
Take a trip to Sabtan Island, tour Batan Island, enjoy the white sand on Nakubuang Beach and trek Mt. Iraya (1009m) Volcano for more beautiful views of the landscape.
Batanes gets more rainfall than other areas of the country. The best times to visit are between March - May.
Banaue, Ifugao
Located in the Northern part of Luzon, The intricate rice terraces of Banaue, carved into the mountains of Ifugao, are one of the most striking things to see in the Philippines. Over 2,000 years old, the dramatic cascading rice terraces are a product of manual hard work by the ancestors of the region’s indigenous people, which are still valuable to locals to this day.
The picturesque emerald-green terraces are an agricultural wonder in this area. The Batad Rice Terraces and the Bangaan Rice Terraces are protected UNESCO World Heritage sites. Take a stroll through the Banaue Ethnic Village or the Hiwang Village to mingle in the well-preserved culture of the indigenous people who farm the rice terraces.
Intramuros, Manila
The Philippines capital of Manila, on the island of Luzon, is a bustling city with non-stop activity offering lots for travellers. Historic Intramuros, nestled within todays restless Metro Manila, is a walled city filled with Spanish-era architecture including the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over half a square km in size, Intramuros today is a flashback to past with its cobblestone streets and conserved ruins.
Safe and Happy travels, Lots of Love Ella x
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