Coron

 

The Coron islands have many things to offer. One traveler writes: “Even after three more visits, we still can’t get enough of it". Its jagged corners are bursting with natural beauty and cultural significance: from the lakes and lagoons of Coron Island, to the neighboring beaches, to the shipwreck dive sites and coral gardens, to saltwater hot springs, to postcard-worthy views from its mountaintops. Heck, they even have an African safari nearby. A trip to Coron Islands could just be that fix your wanderlust.

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Cebu 

 

The Perfect Balance- History, Nature & City Life: Cebu & Bohol Last but not least, is Cebu and Bohol. I dare say Cebu is Philippine’s capital in the south, while Bohol, its darling neighbor, is just a ferry ride away. These places are dear to my heart as we chose to these islands for our post-wedding getaway. Being born and raised in the city, Cebu was well within our comfort zone. “Cebu is one of the most developed provinces in the Philippines, with Cebu City as the main center of commerce, trade, education, .and industry”. (Wikipedia) In other words, it had the familiar city life (complete with traffic jams) but it also had nearby white-sand beaches. It seemed the perfect place for people like us who loved the city and the beach equally. Cebu is also highly significant in the history of the Philippines. It is home to irresistibly sweet dried mangoes and the crispy-skin roast pig (celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain’s “best pig ever”). It is also a place for thrill experiences like the Sky Experience Adventure.

 

 

Siargao Island

 

Surfing Capital of the Philippines: Siargao

Now, if island hopping and wading in clear blue waters is not your speed, then look no further than Siargao Island. If you have surfed the same waves and you’re looking for a new place or challenge, Siargao could be your next travel destination. “Today Siargao is considered a place that every serious surfer should visit. This is mainly due to the legend of Cloud 9... The perfect hollow nature of Cloud 9 has helped put it on the international surfing map and is now the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition.” (https://www.surftravel.com.au/destinations/philippines/siargao-island/)

While being established internationally as a surf spot, it has also become a tourist destination for local celebrities- even being featured in one of the country’s leading fashion, beauty, and lifestyle magazine, Preview. ( https://www.preview.ph/culture/here-s-why-siargao-deserves-a-spot-on-your-travel-bucket-list-a00034-20170801) Certainly, surfing is not the only reason to visit this gorgeous island.

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El Nido, Palawan

 

Travel + Leisure magazine’s world’s best island of 2016 and 2017. In my opinion, internet surveys don’t have much weight but this survey was undertaken by Travel + Leisure, “a travel magazine based in New York City, New York. Published 12 times a year, it has 4.8 million readers”. (Wikipedia) Every year for their World’s Best Awards survey, Travel + Leisure “asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.” (The 2017 World's Best Islands, REBECCA ASCHER-WALSH) “For the second year in a row, the Philippine paradise Palawan wins first place as the best island in the world, thanks to its hidden lagoons, teeming ocean life, and rustic-luxe resorts.” - (The 2017 World's Best Islands, REBECCA ASCHER-WALSH) Palawan’s two most notable islands are Coron and El Nido. Apart from the description above, the El Nido islands have been used to shoot “The Bourne Legacy” directed by Tony Gilroy starring Jeremy Renner and Rachel Weisz. “During the shoot, Renner and Weisz stayed in the luxurious El Nido Resort in Lagen Island, while breakfasts were served at the El Nido Resort in Miniloc Island.” ('Bourne' ends shoot in El Nido, Palawan, ABS-CBN News, Posted at Feb 02 2012 04:30 PM | Updated as of Feb 03 2012 02:53 PM) Rachel Weisz reportedly said during the shooting of The Bourne Legacy: “I can live in Palawan forever!” (Rachel Weisz awed by Palawan By Perseus Echeminada, The Philippine Star) If it’s good enough for her, I reckon it could be for you, too. Is it IG worthy? Without a doubt! Should El Nido seem too daunting?

 

 

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Boracay Islands

 

Party All Day & Night: Boracay If you’re thinking nature tripping is great and surfing is awesome but you’re really looking to party and to have a good time, there’s no other place to let loose than in Boracay. Bora, as the locals fondly call it, hardly needs an introduction as it seems to be the most popular beach destination in the Philippines. Throughout the years, Boracay has been a mainstay as a popular tourist destination. “Boracay was awarded as the 2012 best island in the world from the international travel magazine Travel + Leisure. In 2014, the resort island was at the top of the Best Islands in the World list published by the international magazine Condé Nast Traveler. In 2016, Boracay headed the magazine's list of Top 10 destinations to watch.” (Wikipedia) It seems people can’t get enough of the beach lifestyle Boracay has to offer. Mind you, I have some friends who not only found a great place party but also found the love of their lives while there. If you’re in the market, this could be a possibility for you and your friends, too!

 

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Bohol Islands

 

A sleepy ferry ride from Cebu takes you to Bohol. I fondly remember Bohol as quite a romantic place. My memories of this place include beach resorts named Amorita & Linao (Crystal Clear) and floating down Loboc river for an unforgettable lunch cruise (on a bamboo raft while being serenaded and entertained by talented artists performing traditional songs and dances). Speaking of unforgettable experiences, Bohol is home to the Chocolate Hills, the tarsier, and Loboc Eco Adventure Park zip line.

 

 

A Side note Do all these seem too good to be true? As with everything, perfection is elusive. If you are traveling to any developing country (whether in Asia or Europe), make sure to do your homework and always have your valuables with you. It pays to consult with a legitimate travel agency. Other than that, just sit back, relax, wear your sunnies and sip your cold drink.