BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN PHILIPPINES

by Khasmil Gimena

         The Philippines is a dream destination, with over 7,614 islands surrounded by stunning beaches. Not to mention the undiscovered and under develop islands, and the alluring green rice fields and diverse history to discover. Yes, there are so many beautiful places in the Philippines! So when I put the call out to my fellow travel bloggers to send me their favourite beautiful places I was not disappointed. If you are planning a trip to the Philippines then you wouldn’t be disappointed if you start with this list!

• El Nido

El Nido is one of those places on earth that is difficult to describe. It’s just too El Nido pretty much is paradise on earth.

Well, actually the area around El Nido is what you need to explore. While the village itself is nice too, I highly recommend going on a tour to explore this unbelievable place. El Nido is also a great place to get your PADI, the underwater world is just as beautiful as the world above the surface.

• Sagada

This small town, Sagada, is where you can find challenging caves, magical waterfalls and exotic dishes. The culture also adds to its charming aura. For example, the locals in Sagada still practice their burial tradition of stacking coffins against a limestone wall when an ancient Igorot elder dies. Igorot is what you call the ethnic group living in the mountains of the Cordillera Administrative Region. These stacked coffins or most commonly known as the “Hanging Coffins” can be found in the Echo Valley. It symbolizes the rich culture of the Igorots. The sea of clouds is also one of the highlights of this beautiful place. To witness this breathtaking phenomenon, head over to the Kiltepan Peak before the sun rises and watch the thick sea of clouds in front of you.

• Siquijor Island

Of all the beautiful places in all of my travels thus far, Siquijor Island in the Philippines definitely takes the cake! From idyllic island roads bordering crystal-blue coastline to long stretches of gently sloping mountains dotted with palm trees, to incredibly gorgeous waterfalls and amazing underwater scenery, Siquijor’s beauty is certainly undeniable.

By motorbike, driving the Siquijor Circumferential Road will lead you to the sleepy beachside town of San Juan, where just off the shore features some truly impressive snorkeling to rival that of Panglao and El Nido. I really could not believe my eyes!

Going further will bring you to the township of Lazi, home to what is, in my opinion, the most beautiful waterfall in the Philippines: Cambugahay Falls. This 3-tier waterfall features some seriously unbelievable powder-blue colors, completely surrounded by rich green palms and fun vines to swing with. There is even a makeshift wooden tower, in which to relax and soak in the scene for yourself. If you’re after the most beautiful place in the Philippines, then surely add Siquijor Island to the list!

• Coron, Palawan

Palawan has been recognized as the most beautiful island in the world multiple times by Travel + Leisure. But Coron is the gem in Palawan’s crown, and every Filipino we met in Manila cracked a big smile and said they were jealous when they found out we were spending a week there.

Coron itself is a bit confusing: It encompasses the town of Coron (located on Busuanga Island), nearby Coron Island, and over 50 minor islets in the Calamian archipelago. But all of it is beautiful, offering a diverse array of things to do in Coron, particularly for nature lovers.

If it’s action you crave, you can climb 723 steps to reach the stunning view from the top of Mount Tapyas, hike to Kayangan Lake (which is considered the cleanest in all of Asia), or snorkel Twin Lagoon (which is surrounded by dynamic karst landscapes).

If wildlife is your thing, you can Scuba dive (we saw 13 sea turtles in one dive!), snorkel with dugongs (a relative of the manatee), or visit the 14-square mile Calauit Safari Park.

But if all you want is some R&R, Coron is the perfect place. You can chill on remote private beaches, soak in the Maquinit Hot Spring, or savor the inexpensive massages available at nearly every resort in the area. Whichever approach you choose, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of why Coron is considered one of the world’s most wonderful islands.

• Malapascua

Malapascua is a tiny island north of Cebu, just an hour flight from Manila and a few hours by bus, boat, and tricycle from Cebu City. It is most famous for it’s diving with thresher sharks. Most people go to this little piece of paradise for diving, even if they don’t plan to see the sharks.

However, even if you don’t dive, like me, there is still plenty to keep you busy on the island of Malapascua like walking around the island, finding the lighthouse, searching for your own private beach, joining a snorkeling trip, island hopping, or just laying around in a hammock, enjoying the sun and a book. It’s the perfect place to spend two days or two weeks on your vacation while avoiding some of the crazier crowds in the Philippines.

• Batanes

Batanes, the northernmost province of The Philippines, is composed of ten islands, the biggest three of which are the only ones inhabited. It is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in the Philippines.

Flights to the province are pricier compared to other destinations in the country which sometimes deters a lot of travelers. Bad weather also affects transportation to the province. It is a good thing to help preserve the province’s untouched beauty.

When I think of Batanes, I remember its rolling hills, its verdant landscape, unspoiled beaches, the fresh air, the honest and hospitable people (zero crime rate!), turquoise blue waters, and breathtaking views of the horizon.

While you’re there, take the time to learn about the interesting culture of the Ivatans and try their local food as well. Allot more time on your trip so you can also visit Itbayat, the biggest inhabited island in the province and one of the country’s last frontier. The boat ride there will be one of the most memorable you’ll take in your life!

• Banaue

When thinking of The Philippines, most people imagine tropical beaches, desert islands, and coral reefs. And while places like Boracay, Bohol and El Nido are swarmed with tourists, one of the most breathtaking places, not only in The Philippines but the whole world, remain relatively unnoticed. Just a night-bus distance from Manila, situated in the mountain rainforests up north is the small town of Banaue – home of 2000 years old rice terraces. Often called the 8th wonder of the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site is located approximately 1500 meters above sea level and is still used for rice planting.

No matter how many beautiful views you have under your belt, nothing can prepare you for the first glimpse of the terraces. They are so massive; it’s said if all of them were put end to end, they would equal to half the circumference of the earth.

• Siargao

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful places in the world, look no further than the island of Siargao in the Philippines. This remote location is most famous for surfing and yoga, but has so much more to offer.

The surfing spot, Cloud 9, is world famous and it attracts international and local travelers alike. It was even the inspiration for the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s song, “The Longest Wave.” It does get a bit crowded during the surfing season which is why locals sometimes call it “Crowd 9.”

In addition to surfing, there are many other activities to partake in that will quench your thirst for adventure. You can go to Sugba Lagoon that offers paddle boarding, kayaking or run and jump from the 10-foot diving board into the crystal blue water down below.

You can also enjoy island hopping, cave pools, Taktak Falls, as well as some local food, music, and culture. If you want to center yourself and make the most of this relaxing island, you can practically find a good spot to do yoga on every corner.

Siargao is one of my favorite places in the world! The laid-back attitude, amazing food and the sheer untainted beauty it has to offer will certainly draw you in. Most visitors limit themselves to the activities in just the General Luna area. However, it has so much to offer, I highly recommend exploring the whole island. Don’t miss this one!

• Boracay

Boracay is definitely not an off-the-beaten-path destination anymore. It has been named the best island in the Philippines for several years. And the fact that many tourists have traveled to the island before is what makes a visit so relaxing and stress-free.

Whatever you may feel like doing on your perfect beach vacation, you will find the right activity on Boracay. The north coast of the island is one of the best places in the world to learn kite surfing while Beach on the southern side invites its visitors to relax, snorkel and dive.
What makes Boracay a very special place for me are the incredible sunsets that happen on most evenings. Once the sun starts to sink into the ocean, the sky lights up in the most beautiful color while the last boats make their way back to shore.

The range of evening activities is just as broad as during daytime. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you will find a wide range of exquisite restaurants and if you need something wilder, you can join one of the pub crawls.

Note: Boracay is closed for six months from April 2018 to allow the island to work on their infrastructure and environmental policies, to continue to allow future visitors to experience this beautiful place. 

• Vigan

Vigan city, located in the northern district of Ilocos Sud in the Philippines, is a unique and intact colonial city of Spanish heritage. In fact, the entire city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the well maintained and revitalized historic district that gives this city a complete colonial vibe and feel.

Historic homes have been converted to living museums, small inns, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses that draw visitors mostly from around the country. If you are looking for something historic and different from the typical Philipino tourist experience, then check out all the amazing things to do in Vigan.

Are you convinced to plan your trip yet?! GO AHEAD AND DON'T FORGET TO LEAVE SOME COMMENT AND SUGGESTIONS BELOW.