We’ll give you one good reason to buy a ticket to a locale halfway across the world: Palawan in the Philippines.
Okay, building upon that good reason: it’s been named the most beautiful island in the world by the likes of Travel + Leisure, Condé Naste Traveler, and The Huffington Post, amongst a slew of other household publications, media sites, and definitive bestowers of such honors and accolades. Additionally, its beauty has been compared to that of the Maldives, one of the crown jewels of the Indian Ocean.
Though there are many islands (amongst the staggering 7,000) in the Philippines of great merit that also should be considered should you make the journey across the globe, Palawan truly trumps them all. With emerald green seawater mixing with unique shades of blue, there’s no other water you’ll want to sunbathe and luxuriate in than Palawan’s.
When to go:
Locals and experienced tourists recommend traveling to this beautiful oasis sometime between October and May, which should definitely help you beat any lingering winter blues back home. It’s best to avoid the rainy season, which lasts from June through October.
How to get there:
It’s an hour-and-a-half’s distance from the capital city of Manila by air, though it’s also accessible by Iloilo and Cebu, as well as by boat.
What to do:
Island hop
Navigate the Bacuit archipelago in pursuit of lagoons, sinkholes, and cliffs; visit Puerto Princesa for its impeccable cuisine.
Scuba dive
Coron Bay boasts incredible reefs, which are rated extremely high for what you can find in the region.
Climb Mount Tapyas
It’s an awesome trek where you’ll see the locale “CORON” spelled out in the mountains, quite similar to the famous Hollywood sign on the hills of Los Angeles.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BcejgPzld3o/?tagged=mounttapyas
Visit Maquinit Hot Spring
Soothe any aching muscles or tension from your abundant activity and busy schedule to recharge at this hot spring. For a more intimate experience, try to settle in there after sundown, when it’ll be less crowded.
Take it easy
After lots of adventures in, on, and by the water, be sure to take the time to rest and relax on the gorgeous beaches. After all, they are the best in the world!
Where to stay:
Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa
You might be used to Four Seasons, but don’t discount Two Seasons because of the lower-numbered name. This resort has all you could ever need (massages, great food, amazing views, pools) if you don’t even want to leave and explore, though we’re sure you inevitably will.
Amanpulo
Located on the local island of Pamalican, locals will tell you that this resort is the country’s best. It’s very private and luxurious, and the beach’s sand is so white and the water is so vividly deep yet light blue that you need to see it to believe it.
