The Philippines is an archipelago of around 7,641 islands, many of which offer paradise beaches, turquoise water, and lush vegetation. The variety of destinations makes planning a trip quite a challenge – that’s why it’s best to base your itinerary on well-tested highlights.
Boracay – The Paradise Island That Needed a Break
Boracay is one of the most famous islands in the Philippines. Overtourism led the government to temporarily close it so the natural environment could recover.
The island offers:
- long white beaches with gentle access to the sea,
- numerous beachfront restaurants and bars,
- the other side of the island – perfect for kitesurfers.
Bohol – Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers
Chocolate Hills
In the central part of Bohol you’ll find a unique geological phenomenon – the Chocolate Hills. They cover an area of about 50 km² and consist of hundreds of cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season.
Tarsiers
Bohol is also home to tarsiers – among the smallest primates in the world. They are nocturnal and extremely sensitive animals that do not tolerate captivity well.
A recommended place to see them is the Tarsier Conservation Area, where:
- the animals live in a natural environment,
- silence is required and flash photography is forbidden,
- education is conducted with full respect for animal welfare.
Butterfly Sanctuary
Near the Chocolate Hills you can also visit a butterfly sanctuary presenting the full life cycle – from caterpillar to adult butterfly.
Panglao – A Small Paradise Connected by a Bridge
The island of Panglao is connected to Bohol by a bridge. It offers:
- beautiful beaches,
- a wide range of accommodation,
- bars, restaurants, and easy logistics.
Siquijor – The Mystical Island
Siquijor is famous for legends about healers and local sorcerers.
Worth seeing:
- Lagaan and Cambugahay waterfalls,
- the magical Balete tree,
- Salagdoong Beach with a 14-meter cliff jump,
- mangrove forests and sunsets in San Juan.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BcwsgYYHHKj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZv1syMHg-E/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Cebu – Whale Sharks and Floating Restaurants
Cebu is known for the opportunity to swim with whale sharks. This attraction is controversial because the animals are fed, which affects the ecosystem – it’s worth considering the ethical aspect yourself.
I interviewed different people and learned that it’s not entirely ethical, but without it the animals might be hunted and could become extinct. So the dilemma remains.
You can also find here:
- floating restaurants (e.g. Lantaw – Cordova),
- night tours to watch fireflies.
Coron – The Gateway to Paradise
Coron is not a typical beach island – it’s a port town that serves as a base for trips to:
- lagoons,
- coral reefs,
- volcanic lakes.
To see the most beautiful places, you need to join a boat tour.
Filipino Cuisine – Tropical Flavors
Be sure to try:
- pancit – stir-fried noodles with vegetables,
- ube ice cream (made from purple yam),
- fresh buko coconut,
- calamansi citrus fruits,
- mango – considered one of the best in the world.
Summary
The Philippines is a land of incredible diversity: from the paradise beaches of Boracay, through the mysterious hills of Bohol, to the lagoons of Coron and the mystical island of Siquijor. The archipelago offers almost endless possibilities to create your own route – it’s worth planning ahead to discover both the famous and the lesser-known corners of this tropical paradise.
You can also become a mermaid in the Boracay Mermaid Academy 😉
Malvina Dunder 
Leave a comment