The most beautiful island in the Philippines. Which Philippine island is the most beautiful? Where to live in Bantayan: hotels, resorts, guesthouses
The Philippines offers magnificent beaches, exotic nature and a comfortable holiday.
One of the main advantages of the Philippines is its people. They are incredibly kind and hospitable. Filipinos are famous not only for their perfect pitch, and every second person plays musical instruments amazingly, but they also have a great sense of humor. Their smiles and interest in the guests of the country are so sincere that you never cease to be amazed at their sensitivity and cordiality. In addition, the Philippines is a state in which the main religion is Christianity, the population is devout, but there are no strict prohibitions. About how to plan solo trip to the Philippines Find out which islands to choose for your holiday and how to get to them in this article.
VISA
Visa to the Philippines. Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit the Philippines.
When is the best time to go to the Philippines?
Best time to travel to the Philippines - from the first days of November to the beginning of May. Local summer - the taginit season lasts from March to the end of May. Taginite is considered the hottest time of the year in the Philippines. In May, the southwest monsoon "habakat" arrives on the islands, which brings with it humid weather, and from June to November the "tagulan" - the rainy season - begins. In November, the monsoons give way to dry “amihan” winds. This month marks the countdown of the “cool” winter days of the “tag-lamig” season. For those who have a hard time withstanding the hot, humid climate, the ideal time for a holiday in the Philippines comes when the weather is beautiful throughout almost the entire archipelago. The Philippine winter will last exactly until the beginning of March, then the heat will intensify.
How to get to the Philippines
There are no direct flights to the Philippines from Russia. Flights from Russia are carried out by companies Etihad(connection in Abu Dhabi), Emirates(Dubai) and Fly Duba i (direct flight to Dubai from Samara, Ufa and Kazan), Cathay Pacific(via Hong Kong) Singapore Airlines(via Singapore), Qatar Airways(Doha). The main airport receiving international flights is located on the island of Luzon– the largest island in the north of the country; is located on the same island capital of the Philippines - Manila, a huge metropolis, one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. The second airport, which also accepts international flights, is located on the island of Cebu.
With all the variety of choices, it is most convenient to fly to the Philippines via Hong Kong. Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong (as well as the Philippines). Therefore, you can easily combine Hong Kong and the Philippines into one trip (for example, book two nights in Hong Kong there and one night back, and devote the rest of the time to relaxing on exotic islands).
You don't need to obtain a visa in advance for Singapore either, but a flight from Singapore to Manila or Cebu will take much longer than the same route from Hong Kong. Although the travel time Moscow-Singapore and Moscow-Hong Kong on direct flights is almost the same - about 10 hours. But the good thing about flying through Hong Kong is that if you are flying to Boracay and don’t have plans to visit Manila (but want to get there quickly), then the easiest way is to book tickets Hong Kong-Boracay (Caticlan Airport on Panay Island) - Hong Kong for a flight Cebu Pacific Air(this option is especially convenient for those traveling with children). The flight has a connection in Manila, but if you buy tickets, for example, with a departure at 8.25 from Hong Kong, then at 13.50 you will be in Caticlan and easily catch the ferry; from the airport to the ferry station it is only 10 minutes by car. Booking morning flights from Hong Kong is necessary because Caticlan only accepts small planes that do not have permission to fly at night. The last flight from Manila to Boracay departs around 5:00 p.m. Therefore, if you book flight tickets Etihad(arrives Manila at 16.00) or Qatar Airways, Emirates, then you need to book a hotel in advance for at least one night in Manila. If you are flying from Manila or Cebu to Kalibo International Airport, also located in Panay, then the arrival time is no less important. From Kalibo to Caticlan, where ferries depart for Boracay, the trip will take at least two hours, and the water area closes at night around 20.00. If you don't catch the last ferry, book a hotel for an overnight stay in Panay. Important. If the hotel offers a transfer, you don’t have to refuse, you don’t have to rely on your own intelligence, luck and the ability to book ferry or plane tickets “on the spot” cheaper. Remember that cheap does not yet mean quality food, and even half an hour spent in a tin can (no other associations arise when you see the boats of private cab drivers) will cost much more than 15 on a speed boat, the trip on which is organized by the hotel. Yes, you may be lucky, but you may also fail. And your own safety is not the case when you need to save money.
Which island should you choose? Features of independent travel to the Philippines.
Lovers of snow-white beaches and windsurfing come to Boracay. Cebu is a great opportunity to combine beach, entertainment and shopping. Bohol and Palawan are for fans of eco-tourism and secluded recreation. One of the main questions that arises when planning a holiday on the islands is the ebb and flow of the tides. Of course, there is no need to be afraid that you will have to repeat the fate of Ferdinand Magellan.
It was the ignorance of the ebbs and flows in the Philippines that ruined the navigator. The history of the country, which appeared on the world map relatively recently (less than 500 years ago), begins with the island of Cebu. In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan, heading with his flotilla - without knowing it - on his first trip around the world, lost his way and, as expected, in the best traditions of travelers in the Middle Ages, discovered new lands - the Philippines. Having quickly conquered the island of Cebu and its ruler Humabon, on April 27, 1591, the navigator headed to the neighboring island of Mactan, where local tribes lived. But Magellan’s grandiose plans were not destined to come true; his ships found themselves in a deep low tide. The flotilla was stuck a kilometer from the coast, and the entire crew was forced to disembark from the ships and walk towards the shore. The Aborigines, led by Chief Lapu-Lapu, were in a more advantageous situation. Thanks to the dense tropical thickets and hilly terrain, they were easily camouflaged, while keeping a watchful eye on the invaders, and as soon as they approached, they attacked the “medieval tourists,” killing 9 Europeans, including Magellan himself. Those who managed to escape returned to Spain a year later and brought the sad news of the death of Magellan.
Over five centuries, the country's population has become much friendlier and more hospitable to tourists, but the situation with low tides is still the same. Particularly felt tides on the islands Cebu and Bohol, they are also observed in Boracay, but no longer cause much discomfort. The resort reputation of Cebu and Bohol is justified by the fact that, in comparison with other islands, it is here that the entertainment infrastructure is most developed: promenades, bars and restaurants, plus plenty of space for excursions. So if you can live a couple of hours on the beach or in the pool, then Cebu and Bohol are suitable for you.
These two wonderful islands are also suitable for those who do not like too complicated flights and transfers. There are a minimum number of transfers from Russia to the Philippines precisely if you decide to vacation in Cebu. The flight route will be as follows: flight Moscow-Hong Kong and Hong Kong-Cebu. Arriving in Cebu, you can check into a beach hotel and enjoy your vacation. This is also a convenient option because while relaxing on the island of Cebu or on the island of Bohol you can combine a beach holiday and an excursion program.
- DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN HOTEL PHILIPPINES
Cebu
The history of the Philippines begins in Cebu, and in terms of its popularity among travelers, the island competes with the island of Luzon and the capital of the state, Manila, located on it. There are many historical monuments from the time the island was colonized by the Spaniards, as well as plenty of space for shopping and entertainment. A good alternative to a beach holiday would be a trip to the Kawasan waterfalls, where visitors are offered unique hydromassage procedures: a person is placed on a raft woven from bamboo and taken under a rock, under the jets of a waterfall. Visit an amusement park Sky Adventure V Crown Regency Hotels & Resorts and go ice skating in the park Fuente Osmena.
How to get to Cebu You can fly to Cebu from Russia (with one or two transfers) on flights Emirates, Korean Air, Aeroflot and other airlines, or take a convenient flight to Manila, spend 1-2 days there, and from the capital by plane or ferry get to Cebu. Let us immediately warn you that ferry in this case, not the best option. Travel time by ferry is 20-22 hours. Ferries companies SUPERCAT operate between Manila and Cebu 5 times a week, the departure schedule changes frequently, so you need to check in advance. Ferry Carlos A. Gothong Lines departs from Pier 18 (Manila Pier 18) 2 times a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, departure at 11.00. Cost from $16. By plane Travel time from Manila to Cebu is 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are several flights per day. First departure at 04.00. The cost of a round trip flight is just over $100.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST CEBU HOTELS
Hotels with the best beaches in Cebu Movenpick 5* And Shangri-La Mactan 5*. U Movenpick 5* there is a private beach where you can indulge in bliss under the sun and no one will disturb you with intrusive attention. The Sapphirepool outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by beautiful gardens. On the hotel's beach there is a marine reserve with an amazing diversity of underwater world - an ideal place for diving and snorkeling. And the water sports center offers a wide variety of water activities. The fitness center and health club features state-of-the-art equipment including a gym, dance studio and steam rooms. The SPA center, surrounded by a fragrant garden, has six different treatment rooms and a variety of relaxation areas. Shangri-La Mactan 5*- ideal for families with children. The hotel consists of two buildings: garden wing (modest delux, delux sea view and several suites) and ocean wing (closer to the ocean, club and premier level rooms). There are Russian-speaking staff at the hotel reception. Children's leisure activities are very well organized. Children have a three-story playroom at their disposal, and for teenagers there is a gaming club, stuffed with all kinds of slot machines and computer games. The hotel offers evening entertainment, with theme nights featuring performances by Filipino performers being a particular success. If you are trying to find an alternative Shangri-La Mactan, then you should pay attention to Crimson Resort Resort & SPA 5* . Alegre Beach Resort 4* suitable for those who are looking for privacy, as it is located 2 hours away by car from all populated areas. Comfortable rooms, very nice pool and decent beach. Badian Island Beach Resort&SPA 5* located not on Cebu itself, but on Badian Island(across the strait) on the other side of Bohol Island. This is an island hotel consisting of several bungalows with a swimming pool. Very nice beach. All pools contain sea water. The hotel offers dietary meals made from organic products. For entertainment, guests can enjoy themed beach activities and barbecue dinners every evening. U Badian Island Beach Resort&SPA has its own coral beach, where hotel guests are taken by boat - a great place for snorkeling.
CEBU HOTELS: PRICE COMPARISON ON DIFFERENT BOOKING SITES
BOROCAY HOTELS: PRICE COMPARISON ON DIFFERENT BOOKING SITES
Palawan
When people talk about the island of Palawan, I actually mean a mini-archipelago consisting of several dozen tiny islands and one large one. This is a paradise for divers and lovers of expensive, comfortable holidays in “eco-style”. Palawan is located 600 km from Manila in the southwestern part of the large archipelago of the Philippine islands. The main attraction of Palawan is considered National Park "Puerto Princesa Subterranean River"- an extensive network of many caves connected by an 8-kilometer underground river St. Paul.
Best time to travel to Palawan: January to May; From June to the end of October, it is better to refrain from traveling to the islands, since despite the air temperature rarely falling below 30 degrees, there are heavy rains here.
HOW TO GET TO PALAWAN
Depending on which island of the archipelago the hotel is located on small airplanes local airlines can fly from Manila and Cebu airports Puerto Princesa, Cuyo, Tautau, Pamalican, Busuanga And El Nido. You can move between the islands on yachts or speed boats.
Hotels can also organize their own charter from Cebu airport or Manila, or picked up at Puerto Princesa Airport to take guests to the hotel by boat. The journey, for example, from the port of Puerto Princesa to El Nido will take about 40 minutes.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN PALAWAN
The best hotels offering the most respectable holidays are located in a natural reserve on the El Nido Islands. All resorts here offer all-inclusive accommodation, which includes not only meals, but also a full range of entertainment. Therefore, upon arrival, you can immediately develop a program for your stay with an instructor and plan diving, kayaking or picnics on uninhabited islands. It’s worth staying in Palawan for 3-4 days; rarely does anyone stay longer here.
Local landscapes are very reminiscent of the area Phang Nga Bay in Thailand, so some are inclined to claim that the James Bond movie Tomorrow Never Dies, starring Pierce Brosnon, was filmed in El Nido. This is wrong. But local hotels have seen many celebrities even without Agent 007. For example, the pearl of Palawan Amanpulo Resort 5* love to spend their holidays Robert DeNiro And Claudia Schiffer. This luxury reservation, consisting of secluded villas and bungalows, is located on a separate island of the same name as the hotel. Twice a day: at 13.00 and 16.00, our own charter runs from Manila to the hotel. Return flights from Amanpulo to the capital of the Philippines depart at 9.30 and 14.30.
No less beautiful hotel El Nido Apulit Island Resort 4*, opened in 2010, located in Taytay. Perfect for families with children, especially of school age, as well as for a honeymoon or organizing wedding ceremonies here. The hotel occupies the territory of a private island surrounded by rocks, hidden from prying eyes in a quiet bay with white sand. To accommodate hotel guests, there are 50 water cottages built on stilts, over the water in the traditional Philippine architectural style on the seashore. Each cottage has a private veranda with views of the turquoise bay of Palawan Taytay and the surrounding islands and rocks. The peculiarity of the hotel is that its territory promotes exclusively eco-recreation and complete immersion in nature, so you will have to forget about the TV for a while. But the hotel staff takes full responsibility for the cultural and sports recreation program of its guests. During your stay in El Nido Apulit Island Resort You can take daily boat trips to uninhabited islands, watch birds and animals living in the rainforest, accompanied by a personal guide. And every evening there are themed dinners on the coast.
Another hotel of the chain is located on the island of Lagen El Nido - Lagen Resort 4*. It is considered one of the best resorts in this region. Lagen Resort consists of a complex of bungalows located on a hill or directly on the water. The neighboring island of Palawan can only be reached by boat in 30 minutes.
Economical holidays are offered in El Nido Mineloc Resort 3*, located on the island of the same name. The hotel rooms are a little simpler than its two previous brothers, but the beach here is much better than in Lagen Resort.
Palawan's collection of luxury hotels will soon be expanded with another exclusive hotel located on the island. Huma- 80 overwater bungalows from Movenpick Hotels & Resorts, in the heart of the Palawan archipelago. The island is very popular among divers due to its rich marine life and the wreckage of 12 of the most legendary ships that were wrecked in the mid-20th century.
There are many mountains on Huma, completely covered with tropical forests and primitive caves, and the endless clean beaches surrounding the island were once the habitat of the “sailor Ibrahim”, who was thrown ashore in 1352 after the wreck of his galleon “Huma” on the way from India To China. Ibrahim has long been dead, but the legend about him and the name of his ship still live.
All hotels on Palawan on the map: price comparison on different sites
If planning an independent trip to the Philippines is too difficult for you or you don’t have time for it, it makes sense to turn to specialists Top Travel Agent. There are two options: you can order development private itinerary to the Philippines or ask to select a ready-made offer from a tour operator that meets your needs. Feel free to leave a request - it does not oblige you to anything, travel agents will send you options and you can choose either the cheapest one or entrust the organization of your trip to a highly rated specialist in the Philippines
The tourism industry in the Philippines is growing very quickly. This is quite natural, because there are all conditions for a wide variety of recreation. The Philippines offers its guests beach, extreme and even sex tourism.
The best beaches in the country are located on the islands of Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Panglao and Mactan. Fans of eco-tourism will love the island of Palawan and its amazing underground Puerto Princesa River. Divers from all over the world travel to the Philippine islands for new underwater experiences. The islands of Boracay and Palawan, as well as the reefs of Apo and Tubbataha, are especially popular among diving enthusiasts. The many volcanoes of this country create excellent conditions for active or extreme mountaineering.
The best time to visit the country is from December to May, when comfortable air temperatures are combined with calm and dry weather. Tourists should also try original local dishes. Philippine cuisine can be quite spicy, so when ordering, you should tell the waiter in advance the desired amount of spices in the dish.
Local coconut oil, pearl jewelry, and a wide variety of handicrafts, from frog wallets to rattan furniture, are usually brought as souvenirs from this hospitable country.
The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see in the Philippines?
The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief descriptions.
The capital of the Philippines, one of the most populous cities on the planet. Founded in 1571. The city is currently part of the National Capital Region. Manila is famous primarily for its historical district of Intramuros, various museums, Rizal Park and the official palace of the Malacañan President.
On the banks of the Pasig River is the capital's famous historical district, Intramuros. At the end of the 16th century, it was erected to protect Spanish families. Today, tourists from all over the world come here to see with their own eyes the ancient fortress of Intramuros, visit one of the oldest churches in the country, San Agustin, built in 1607, and also get acquainted with the local defensive structure - Fort Santiago.
One of the most popular tourist centers in the country. There are excellent places for diving, windsurfing and kitesurfing, and beach lovers are attracted by the famous White Beach. Boracay Island has many hotels, cafes and restaurants, and night partygoers can expect fashionable DJs and daily lively discos.
Jungles, mangroves and mountains are the main natural characteristics of the island of Palawan, which began to be settled in the 12th century. Currently, people come here to stay in luxury eco-hotels, go diving and trekking, and also visit the famous Tabon caves, in which the remains of ancient humanoid creatures were discovered.
The length of the White Beach on Boracay Island is about 4 kilometers. There are always a lot of vacationers here, and newlyweds often use White Beach for wedding ceremonies. Conventionally, the beach is divided into three parts, according to the numbers of boat stations. The purest sand and gently sloping entrance to the water make White Beach a great place for a family holiday.
One of the oldest urban parks in Asia is Jose Rizal Park. This special place was named after a famous 19th century Filipino figure. And in 1946, it was in this park that the country’s independence was proclaimed. Among other attractions, there is the Jose Rizal Monument, the Independence Flagpole, the Japanese and Chinese Gardens, the National Library of the Philippines, the Orchid Conservatory and the Butterfly Pavilion.
In 2008, the Manila Ocean Park was opened in Jose Rizal Park. The main local attraction here is the 25-meter Living Ocean Tunnel, whose walls bend at an angle of 220 degrees. Manila Ocean Park itself is divided into several thematic zones. Also in the aquarium you can see a musical fountain, the height of which is more than 35 meters.
The first historical mentions of the city of Vigan date back to the 16th century, when the local population traded with Chinese merchants. The buildings of this city combine architectural designs from the Philippines, China and Europe. Among the attractions of Vigan, it is worth mentioning such places as the Cathedral, the birthplace of the Filipino patriot Jose Burgos and the presidential residence.
The river is located on the island of Palawan. For 8 kilometers it flows in a large cave, where excursion trips are regularly made. Just over 1 kilometer of this underground river is available for inspection.
On the island of Bohol, famous among tourists, there is an unusually picturesque mountain system - the Chocolate Hills. These geological monuments received their original name thanks to the grass that covers them. During the dry season, the grass dries out and turns from green to brown - hence the name of the hills.
One of the most beautiful active volcanoes on the planet is the Philippine Mayon Volcano, located on the island of Luzon. At the base of the volcano you can see the remains of the city of Sagzava, destroyed by the 1814 eruption. You can see Mayon from a bird's eye view from the cockpit of a seaplane; those who wish have the opportunity to hike to the volcano.
To see one of the smallest active volcanoes on the planet, you should move south from the capital of the Philippines. The volcano is located in the center of the lake of the same name, so the most convenient route is by water. The volcano is not too high, and you can reach its top in literally 20-30 minutes. Taal offers amazing views of the lake and its surroundings.
The unique man-made fields, created more than 2 thousand years ago, are a national treasure and a popular tourist attraction in the Philippines. The excellent irrigation system of the rice terraces in the Philippine Cordillera is still used to this day for the cultivation of vegetables and rice.
These structures are located in different geographical locations in the Philippines. They are UNESCO sites and are combined into one pool of attractions thanks to the unique interpretation of the Baroque style by Filipino and Chinese masters. St. Augustine Church is located in Manila and is the oldest church in the country. The Church of Saint Thomas of Villanueva was built in the city of Miagao in the 18th century. Paoay and Santa Maria churches are located on the island of Luzon.
To the southeast of the island of Palawan is the famous Tubbataha Reef, which gives its name to the local national park. A huge number of fish species live here, including barracudas, moray eels, stingrays and hammerhead sharks. Divers from all over the world rush to dive near Tubbataha Reef to see with their own eyes all the aquatic diversity of these places.
Famous mountain tourism site in the Philippines. This active volcano, over 1,400 meters high, last erupted in 1991. It was then that the crater was formed, which later turned into a lake. This lake attracts tourists with its beauty almost as much as the volcano itself.
At the request of the Chinese diaspora living on the island of Cebu, a Taoist temple was built here in the 1970s. Made in traditional Chinese architectural style, it looks original among the Philippine landscapes. In addition to the rich interior decoration, tourists are attracted here by the original method of fortune telling about the future.
One of the largest reefs on the planet, Apo Reef is a popular attraction in the Philippines. To protect the local natural diversity, a natural park of the same name was created here. From late winter to May, diving enthusiasts come to the reef to personally admire the variety of corals and the many fish that live here.
The highest point in the Philippines, which is a potentially active volcano. These are favorite places of pilgrimage for climbers from all over the world. The trails of Mount Apo are ready to accommodate climbers of all skill levels, and the climb to the top takes from 2 to 9 days, depending on the route chosen. Volcano Apo is part of the national park of the same name.
The military-defensive structure, located in the city of Cebu, begins its history in the 16th century, when the first stones of this fort were laid. After the last restoration carried out in the 1970s, a museum was formed on the territory of the fort, where documents and photographs from the time of Spanish ownership of this structure are stored. Outside, the fort is surrounded by a park decorated with a monument to the famous Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.
This military structure was initially built of earth and logs, and after the Spanish-Chinese War, the fort was built of stone. Among Filipinos, these places are revered as the final resting place of the famous Philippine national hero Jose Rizal until his execution. Today there is a museum here, and tourists use Fort Santiago for picnics and leisurely walks in the fresh air.
In 1521, the ships of the famous navigator Ferdinand Magellan reached the island of Cebu. The local residents and their ruler, impressed by the power of the weapons of the Spanish team, converted to Christianity. In honor of this significant event, Magellan ordered the installation of a wooden cross in the city center, which today is a popular tourist attraction.
One of the most unusual attractions in the Philippines - Magellan's Tomb and the monument to Chief Lapu-Lapu - is located on Mactan Island in the Mactan Shrine Park. When Magellan arrived on the islands, only the leader of Lapu-Lapu opposed the expansion of the Spaniards. To teach a lesson to the rebellious natives, Magellan entered into battle with them, but lost and was killed during the retreat. As the legend goes, it was Chief Lapu-Lapu who did this.
Mashid al-Dahab is called the Golden Mosque for its huge dome covered with gold. Its construction took place in 1976 specifically for the visit of Muammar Gaddafi, the Libyan president. Although the visit did not take place, Mashid al-Dahab is still a sacred place for many Filipino Muslims today.
In 1962, the fossilized remains of three ancient people were discovered in the Tabon Caves on the island of Palawan. These remains were called the "man from Tabon". Also found here were special funerary vessels, jade jewelry and various stone tools. Tourists can only explore Tabon Cave with a guide.
One of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the Philippines is the Basilica of Santo Niño on the island of Cebu. It began to be built in the 16th century from wood and clay. Then, on the site of the first building, a stone church was erected, which organically combined neoclassical, Romanesque and Muslim styles of architecture. Inside the Basilica of Santo Niño there is a museum of the history of Christianity on the island of Cebu.
The main residence and office of the vice-president of the country is located in the suburbs of the capital. The Coconut Palace was opened in 1981 specifically for the visit of Pope John Paul II, but the pontiff refused to stay in what he considered to be an overly luxurious building. Coconut shells and special coconut lumber were used to build the palace, and the roots, bark, trunk, fruits and even flowers of coconut were reflected in the design and decoration of this building.
The island of Bohol is home to the picturesque Loboc River, which is now one of the popular attractions in the Philippines. River cruises are regularly organized here, during which you can stop to have a snack at floating restaurants and listen to traditional Filipino songs performed by locals. These river cruises start near the Loai Bridge and finish near the Busai mini-waterfalls.
Funny tiny monkeys with big eyes - tarsiers - can be seen on the island of Bohol. These rare primates live here in natural conditions in a specially fenced park, and can even leave it if desired. When visiting the Tarsier Center, you should be quiet and not touch or scare the small animals.
The three-stage Kawasan Falls, located on the island of Cebu, attracts tourists not only with its beauty. The fact is that this water cascade is located in a real jungle. First, tourists are picked up in jeeps or buses, and then adventure lovers move independently following the guide. To visit Kawasan Falls, you should wear shoes with ridged soles or special trekking boots.
It is difficult to single out any specific island, since each island is interesting and beautiful in its own way. If you want to relax in the company of a large number of tourists, including Russian-speaking ones, then it is best to choose the most popular tourist island in the Philippines - Boracay. This island is famous for its good infrastructure and excellent white beaches. But I would highlight another popular and at the same time slightly less noisy Philippine island - Cebu. The average annual air temperature on this island is +27 degrees, and the water can warm up to 29-30 degrees. The only thing that can ruin a vacation is long rains, which last for almost six months on the island. To avoid the weather ruining your vacation, it is best to come to Cebu from November to April.
Cebu is not only an island, but also the name of the province of the same name, which contains the largest number of attractions in the country. Beach holidays on the island are not inferior to beach holidays on Boracay and are represented by wide sandy beaches, which are surrounded by dense vegetation in the form of palm trees and other plants. There are waves, but the island is protected from them by beautiful coral reefs, and this in turn creates excellent opportunities for lovers of snorkeling and diving.
Cebu offers tourists accommodation not only in comfortable, fashionable and at the same time expensive hotels, but also in ordinary bungalows, which have the minimum necessary for a vacation. Unlike a number of countries, people do not come to the Philippine islands to sit in a hotel, have fun with animators and gain extra pounds; here is a completely different holiday, which includes spending time on the beach with trips to various excursions and water sports . Vacationers have many opportunities for such active recreation as surfing, diving, playing tennis, basketball, football, golf. Near Cebu there are numerous uninhabited islands to which excursions are organized (the most adventurous tourists prefer to spend one or several days in such a place).
Service in hotels and restaurants is normal, the attitude towards tourists is positive, although there are scammers, as well as unscrupulous sellers who try to artificially inflate prices in order to make money on gullible tourists, but this is a common practice in any tourist country and the Philippines is no exception. To avoid problematic situations with the local population, you should not touch upon the religious topic, since there are often conflicts in the country between the Muslim and Christian communities.
Numerous excursions offer tourists to plunge into the world of local flora and fauna. Here you have the opportunity to watch a large number of birds, butterflies, and various animals, and all this is not in some zoo, but in their natural habitat.
You can get around Cebu by taxi or by such a popular public transport in the Philippines as a jeepney (the route is usually indicated on the vehicle itself, but it is still very difficult for a tourist to navigate, so it is best to take a taxi or walk).
Local cuisine is not only hearty, but also delicious. Given the geographical location of the island, seafood dishes predominate here. You can also buy fruits for little money, including those that are not sold here. Each hotel has its own restaurant, and the food is prepared differently everywhere. Finding a restaurant serving French, Japanese or Chinese cuisine will not be a big problem.
You are unlikely to be able to see all the sights even in 10-14 days of vacation, but a number of places are definitely worth visiting. These include the Magellan Cross. Some guides, in order to lure as many tourists as possible, say that this is exactly the cross that was installed by the famous navigator in 1521, but this is not so. According to some historical data, that cross was destroyed shortly after its installation. Until now, this cross is being repaired among local residents who consider it a shrine.
The oldest and smallest fort not only on the island, but also in the country is Fort San Pedro. Its area is just over two thousand square meters. This triangular structure, which faces the sea on both sides and fortified with various weapons, protected the city from pirate attacks. Initially, the fort was built from such far from the most reliable materials as logs and clay, but over time it was strengthened and rebuilt. At the end of World War II, the fort was partially abandoned, but several decades later it was completely restored. Now this fort can be considered an open-air museum.
Anyone who wants to see unforgettable natural beauty should definitely visit the Butterfly Garden, where you can see more than 50 species of these creatures, including a number of rare species that are practically never found in nature. Butterflies live in the garden and the best time to visit is in the morning.
Recently, various spas have begun to actively develop on the island, offering a large selection of services of high quality. Most often, such salons are located on the territory of five-star hotels. Here you can take a course of standard procedures or choose something unusual (exotic).
And finally, a little about nightlife. Vacationers on the island can visit not only bars and restaurants, but also nightclubs, discos and even casinos. Each establishment tries to offer not only a good selection of drinks and snacks, but also an interesting entertainment program. Usually, entrance to clubs is free, but on days when there are live music concerts, you will need to pay to enter (usually this happens on Friday and Saturday).
Many domestic travel agencies organize trips to this island, but you can plan such a trip yourself (however, it’s difficult to say how profitable an independent trip would be in this case).
Despite the fact that in the Philippines there is simply a huge number of all kinds of attractions that are scattered across the islands, and regional residents primarily go to the Philippines for a beach holiday, and it is simply magnificent in a country of 7107 islands.
Of course, articles like this are written by people and their opinion can often be subjective, so below is the rating of the 10 best beaches in the Philippines from Sun Philippino
1. White Beach, Boracay. Of course, it simply couldn’t be any other way; the well-deserved first place in this ranking goes to White Beach on the island of Boracay. Often the entire Philippines is meant by this island and many tourists don’t even think that there is not only Boracay but also Bohol, Cebu, Palawan and the list is huge. Let's return to the beach; it is 4 kilometers of wide sandy strip. The sand is amazingly white, very fine and delicate. And it is the white color of the sand plus the transparency of the water that gives the famous color of Boracay, blue azure. Very beautiful. This beach is ideal for swimming. Uniform gentle entry into the sea. The absence of stones and corals at the bottom as well as algae make this swimming safe and comfortable even for small children. This beach is simply a must-see, and if not on your first visit to the Philippines, then certainly on your next one.
Boracay Island has an endless number of eateries and restaurants, and at night it is an island with a vibrant nightlife. Clubs, discos, hookah bars, live music and of course alcohol. Boracay attracts people from the beach on one side and party people on the other. The island is conducive to new acquaintances and large groups of people.
How to get to Boracay
There are no airports on Boracay itself; two airports are located on the neighboring island of Panay.
1. Kalibo International Airport where flights from China and Korea land and of course the cheapest flights from domestic airlines are here. On average, a Manila - Kalibo flight costs $40, then a minivan transfer for 200 pesos or a taxi for 1,500 pesos will take you in about 1.5 hours to the port of Caticlan from where boats depart for Boracay, at one ticket office you can buy the boat ticket itself, in neighboring port fee and fee to the environmental company for a total of 170 pesos. On the island itself, in the port, there are tricycles on which passengers get to their hotels.
2. You can fly domestic flights to Caticlan Airport, these flights are more expensive and average $70 per person. But 10 minutes by tricycle and you are in the port of the same city of Caticlan, then a boat.
3. You can sail to the port of Caticlan on the island of Panay by ferry from the port of Batangas in the south of Luzon; it will be very inexpensive, about 900 pesos, but very long and tiring. The ferry takes 10 hours.
2. Moalboal Beach, Cebu. Many people and even experienced travelers are accustomed to thinking and writing that there are no beaches on the island of Cebu. The city of Moalboal categorically refutes these allegations. The town of Moalboal, 7 kilometers from the highway, has two beach areas. One is //// and the other is to the north and there is a huge beach there called white sand beach, almost all beaches that are wide, long and with white sand in the Philippines are called that. Therefore, we put Moalboal after a comma. So the white sand beach, Moalboal. This is approximately 1.5 kilometers of wide beach line of white sand. The entrance to the water is excellent. Swimming is a pleasure, there are very few people, along the beach there are cafes overlooking the beach with very reasonable prices for food and drinks. There are no sunbeds or umbrellas on the beach, since there are very few hotels on the beach itself and the hotel business in this direction is, for mysterious reasons, poorly developed. I am shocked by this situation, because among absolutely all the beaches in the Philippines of this level, this one is the closest because it is located on the mainland and only a 3-hour drive from Cebu International Airport and you don’t have to swim anywhere else, stand in line for ferries or boats, transfer to Thaicycles with suitcases. Everything is very simple: airport, transfer from the airport for 650 pesos, beach!
3. Pagudpud Beach, Luzon. The beach surprised me with its size and emptiness. This is about 3 kilometers of wide sandy beach and there are very few vacationers. Being there you understand what Boracay was like 30 years ago. There is an excellent descent into the water, there is a separate crustal reef that is easy to swim to and there is something to see. That is, this is a rare combination of getting caught and snorkeling. This is not common in the Philippines and usually snorkeling beaches are completely unsuitable for swimming and swimming and vice versa. There are hotels on the beach and there are very few of them. Costs from 5000 pesos to 400 pesos. I especially liked the modest bamboo houses right on the beach for 300 pesos per person, all they have is a bed and bamboo walls, but it looks very romantic and seems to hint that you already have everything you need to be happy. Shared shower. The beach is very picturesque and photographic. There is a palm grove and along much of the beach there are tall palm trees, very tall palm trees.
4. Anda Bohol. The peace and quiet of the unexplored beaches on the popular island of Bohol near the city of Anda will surprise you. We are accustomed to thinking that the only beach area in Bohol is Alona Beach on the Panglao Peninsula, which, by the way, is not included in this author’s subjective list of the best beaches in the Philippines. But meanwhile, if you go 3 hours from Tagbilaran or 1.5 hours from the chocolate hills towards Lambanok, you will be amazed by truly beach treasures.
Anda City is a very small provincial town with a very good and beloved mayor in Bohol. The city has the most important and widest beach and it only looks attractive from satellite maps, but in practice it is not suitable for swimming because of the corals, you need to walk along them for a very long time to get to the depth and it will be a sharp depth with waves and the risk of hitting coral wall. But of course, you shouldn’t get upset and turn back when you see this beauty. you need to rent a motorcycle and, armed with a map, carefully turn into all turns from the main road and at every turn you will find secluded lagoon-type beaches with white sand and a complete absence of people. In some places there will be boats, in others there won’t be, in others it will be shallow, and in others you can’t imagine a better place for swimming. It is very difficult to point out specific places since there are really a lot of them. We can only say unequivocally that the East Coast Hotel has its own beach, which is very beautiful and very suitable for swimming.
An additional gift for those who completed this search route will be small but very beautiful caves filled with fresh, cool water in which you can and should swim, especially after the sultry heat if you find it.
5. Las Cabanas Palawan
6 Nakpan Palwan
7. Malapascua Beach
8. Paradise Bantayan
For those who dream of relaxing on a beautiful sandy beach, lovers of diving and Asian exoticism, a holiday in the Philippines is an excellent choice.
The Philippines is a country located in the Pacific Ocean on more than seven thousand islands that are part of the Malay Archipelago. The relief of the islands is mostly mountainous, a significant part of them is covered with lush tropical forests. The islands are washed by the waters of three seas: the Philippine Sea, the South China Sea and the Sulawesi Sea. In the north, the archipelago is separated from Taiwan by the Bashi Strait.
The climate of the Philippines is tropical monsoon. A special feature of this climate is the large amount of precipitation that falls from spring to autumn. But in winter there is practically no precipitation, which is especially noticeable in the west of the islands of Luzon, Palawan and the Visayas. In the north of the territory, typhoons are frequent and the danger of tsunamis is high.
Despite the not very stable political situation, the Philippines, whose beaches are ideal for a comfortable holiday, attracts many tourists. Any of the thousands of islands can serve as a wonderful holiday destination; for lovers of convenience and peace there are wonderful equipped sandy beaches, for adventure seekers there are plenty of opportunities to relax in unexplored territories. For such people, the rainy season is not a hindrance. In general, the nature, climate, and culture of these places are exotic for a resident of the middle zone. The largest of the entire group of Philippine islands are Luzon, Samar, Mindao, Mindoro, Negros, Palawan, Bohol, Cebu, Panay, Leyte.
The frantic rhythm of the big city will drive anyone crazy. Sitting at your next report, you dream of soaking up the rays of the sun on the seashore or ocean. So isn't it time to give your dream a chance to come true? Take a vacation, pack your bags and fly away from all your troubles to pristine nature, tropical forests, alluring reefs, mysterious caves, and breathtaking landscapes. Best beaches in the Philippines with their characteristic Asian hospitality, they will give you an unforgettable fairy tale.
Unique and different from each other. They invariably attract thousands of tourists from all over the world, offering vacationers a warm, caressing sea (water temperature 26-28 degrees), sparkling with multifaceted shades - from blue to emerald green, and dazzling white sand.
In the north of Panay Island there is the famous Boracay Beach - it is one of the ten best beaches in the world. The sand shimmering in the sun and the crystal clear sea attract here, like a magnet, those who like to swim in warm waters, scuba dive and windsurf. Only in Boracay and Hawaii can you see miniature, white clouds huddled in small piles on the horizon. In addition to water activities, Boracay is a center for clubbing. The fun here continues from sunset to dawn.
Bantayan Beach (Cebu Province) offers a more relaxed and relaxed atmosphere. Here you will not hear loud music, which is a constant companion of noisy and cheerful Boracay. Only the whisper of coastal waves and a light breath of fresh breeze disturb the serenity of relaxation in this pristine paradise. 
For a long time, Palawan, despite the amazing beauty of its places, remained deprived of the attention of vacationers. The colorfulness of this place is given by the village houses, lost among the untouched wild nature. At the moment the situation has changed dramatically. According to most vacationers, Palawan has the best beaches in the Philippines.
The island's beaches are very popular with divers and other thrill-seekers. The absolute favorite is Honda Bay Beach, consisting of several islands surrounded by coral reefs, crystal clear water and soft white sand. The uniqueness of these places was highly appreciated by UNESCO, which declared the Tubbataha Reef a global heritage in 1998 and took it under its protection. No matter what type of holiday you choose - be it swimming in the cool waters, exploring the underwater world with scuba diving or sunbathing - Honda Bay will make a lasting impression on you! 
In the province of Palawan, the resort of El Nido is located, which includes about 45 islands, as if ringed by marble rocks, which gave shelter to a variety of tropical birds. El Nido beaches, like all the others Philippines beaches, incredibly beautiful. Among other things, this area is famous for its delicious and interesting soups - in Chinese restaurants you will certainly be offered to try Nido soup, made from the nests of local birds. Pristine nature, beautiful forests, sunny beaches, inviting reefs, mysterious caves and breathtaking landscapes - you will not find such a view anywhere else! 
Puraran and Siargao - best beaches in the philippines for surfers - they are on a par with the beaches of Australia, Hawaii and Japan. The most popular is Puraran, located on the island of Catanduanes. On weekends, tourists and locals flock here to ride the wave. The beach area is limited by high cliffs and stones. During the cold season, there are very strong currents in the sea and endless rain showers. The huge waves of Siargao Beach, up to 12 feet high, attract daredevil athletes from August to March. The Siargao Cup Surfing Competition is held annually in mid-autumn, an important sporting event in the country that attracts participants from other countries. 
In the Philippines, the beaches are distinguished by wonderful white sand that does not burn even at midday, picturesque corals and beautiful clear water. Tourists have the opportunity to combine a beach holiday with diving and surfing. Several of the most visited beaches are the most popular.
On the island of Boracay, everything is equipped for a comfortable stay; here is the most famous and fashionable resort in the Philippines. Many hotels and a beautiful multi-kilometer beach, blue clear water are combined with an abundance of free space. 
The island of Mindoro offers vacationers beaches located in Muelle Bay near the city of Puerto Galera. The beaches of White Beach and Tamaraw Beach, Laguna Beach and Sabang, located in the bay, are excellent for relaxing on the beach and diving.
Near the island of Bohol, scuba diving enthusiasts and tourists who like to combine swimming in the sea with visiting restaurants and entertainment centers will find the small island of Panlao. There are many hotels on the island and wonderful places to relax on the beaches, you just need to be careful because of the abundance of sea urchins in the coastal strip and on the beach. 
For those who prefer privacy, Cabilao Island, located west of Bohol, is ideal. The 2-kilometer long Dolho Beach is an ideal place for divers, thanks to its crystal clear water and abundance of coral.
Catanduanes Island is located very close to Luzon, where the capital of the Philippines, Manila, is located. The beaches of the island, of which the most famous is Puraran, become the object of attention for Manila residents who spend their weekends here. In addition, Catanduanes attracts surfers who are not afraid of strong currents, which are quite dangerous in the autumn. 
Excellent holiday destinations can be found near the island of Cebu. There are many inexpensive hotels on Bantayan Island, so there are plenty of vacationers, especially since, like everywhere else in the Philippines, the beaches are beautiful. The beaches on Malapasca Island, located northeast of Cebu, are world famous and offer excellent diving for those who enjoy diving with sharks. And the island of Puo will give its shelter to lovers of solitude. 
Beach holidays in the Philippines are attracting more and more tourists, due to the fact that swimming can be combined with active recreation, cruises, excursions, even air safaris. You can take advantage of the beaches that are perfectly equipped for tourists visiting the Philippines, or you can become discoverers of paradise. The abundance of islands allows you to escape from the vagaries of rather unstable weather, moving from beach to beach.