Where is the best place to relax in the Philippines? Paradise Island Bantayan. Which Philippine island is the most beautiful? Better in the Philippines

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, 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).

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.

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 a 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 school-age children, 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, the hotel offers 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 main trump cards of the Philippine Islands are their nature, exoticism and local people. Incredibly beautiful landscapes, tropical forests and national parks attract travelers from all over the world. Transparent water and snow-white beaches give the country the status of a paradise. And Filipinos are always very sociable, smiling and ready to help any tourist. The archipelago consists of more than 7 thousand islands, each of which has its own recreational features.

Selecting a location

The best islands of the Philippines, popular with most tourists, can be represented in the form of the following list: Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Palawan, Panglau, Negros, Bantayan. The selection criteria are individual for each tourist. If the main criterion for selection is the opportunity to spend time actively, then any part of the archipelago will do. Diving, snorkeling and kiting are developed at the highest level. For divers, this is a real haven - the rich underwater world, combined with clear waters, opens up new facets of this hobby.

Other key criteria, especially for family trips, often include:

• low cost of living;
• safety and tranquility;
• developed beach structure;
• low prices for food and entertainment;
• lack of tourist crowds.

Boracay has no equal in beach holidays. The snow-white sand has a powder-like texture, and hotel complexes are located in the shade of branchy palm trees. As the sun sets, active nightlife begins. This is one of the best options for young people. The entertainment infrastructure is very widely developed - bars, restaurants, discos. But all these advantages have led to a large influx of travelers. So for those looking for solitude, Boracay is unlikely to be suitable. And the prices are above average.

Bohol is primarily chosen by those who welcome eco-tourism. A world-class attraction is the picturesque Chocolate Hills. Bug-eyed monkeys, tarsiers, live here. An entire park is dedicated to animals. The infrastructure is poorly developed, there are also few nightlife activities, so the main attraction of the territory lies in the coastal zone.

Panglao is located near Bohol, and the coastline there is better, but the prices for accommodation are not the most reasonable. On the contrary, to shops, you have to go across the bridge to Bohol. Not everyone is happy with the constant movement from Bohol territory to Panglao. The beaches are crowded, with foreigners and locals gathering from morning until sunset.

Palawan's main attraction is a park consisting of a network of caves connected by an underground river. Vacations are considered comfortable, but also expensive. In addition to the pricing policy, travelers are not satisfied with the remoteness of this part from the main archipelago and the lack of constant power supply. But for lovers of untouched nature and solitude, the place is perfect. This is the safest part of the archipelago - there are no volcanoes nearby and earthquakes do not occur.

Divers love Negros. This is the main positive side of the point. Another advantage is the large number of spas. The beaches are small, with volcanic sand. It will be quite possible to retire away from the main tourist flow. Those who like to wander through the jungle will also find something to keep themselves busy.

Cebu is mainly an excursion holiday. Cebu has many historical attractions, plenty of shopping opportunities, beautiful nature and ideal climatic conditions. But the underdeveloped beach infrastructure is not suitable for everyone, because most vacationers are looking for a good coastal area in this island state. However, very close to Cebu is the small island of Bantayan. Bantayan satisfies all the above criteria. Its size is quite large, there are shops and good internet. At the same time, it is small for large crowds of travelers and local vacationers. The coastal area here is no worse than in Boracay, and prices for accommodation and food are much lower. It is often called a lost paradise due to the lack of crowds of tourists. For family holidays and holidays with children, the place will be an ideal destination. There are three cities on the island territory - Santa Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos. The first of them is in great demand.

The tourist decides which island in the Philippines to choose on his own, depending on his preferences and the nature of his vacation. The local currency is Philippine pesos. One dollar is equal to 49 pesos, 1 peso is equivalent to 1.25 rubles.

How to get there?

To travel to Bantayan, you need to take the ferry from Hagnaya Town. Ferries depart every 30-60 minutes depending on the time of day. However, flights may be canceled if there are not enough passengers for the trip. A ticket in 2019 costs 170 local units, the travel time is 70-80 minutes.

You can get to the station from Cebu City by bus. To do this, you should find the Northern Bus Station next to the large supermarket “SMcityCebu”. At the station you need to find buses going to Hagnay. The travel time will be about 3.5 hours. The fare ranges from 120 to 180 pesos, depending on the type of carrier. Older cars without air conditioning are cheaper.

From here you can take a specialized route that goes directly to the island, as it is transported by a cargo ferry. There are only 4 of them per day: at 12 am, at 4 am, at 10 am and at 12:30.

If the departure is planned from Boracay, then from the city of Iloilo you need to take a passenger boat - Bangui. Boats move only on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Departure at 9 am. On other days, ships move in the opposite direction at the same time. The journey will take about 3.5 hours. But it is worth considering that due to low tides, the schedule may be different.

Bantayan is often combined with the island of Malapascua. From here you need to get to the port of Mayo, where you can take the bus route for 18 pesos. You should get off at the Don Pedro stop, and then take a tricycle (motorcycle with sidecar) to Hagnay. Fee: 15 local units. Transport will take you to the ferry station, as in the first case.
Upon arrival at the port of Santa Fe, you can also take a tricycle. You can negotiate with the drivers, and any route will not cost 25 p. First, everyone quotes a price of at least a hundred.

Accommodation

Where to relax in the Philippines if you choose Bantayan territory? Of the three communities, Santa Fe stands out. There are high-quality deserted beaches, the most beautiful landscapes, cleanliness and tranquility. The town of the same name as the island is mainly intended for buying groceries and sightseeing. This is a large market square, many food outlets and ATMs. Madridejos is famous for the ruins of a fort, which are suitable as a landscape for a photo shoot. There are practically no tourists there.

Prices for housing start from 500 pesos per room in small hostels, and from 1000 for a hotel on the first line. Holidays in December are considered the peak of the tourist season, which can cause housing prices to increase. Some hotels will offer a discount for long-term stays. For an average cost of 800 p.c. you can get a double room with a private bathroom, TV, wardrobe and fan. For a minimal fee there may be no bathroom, no closet, just beds and chairs.

If your arrival occurs at night, it is better to book a hostel for the first night, and in the morning go looking for suitable housing if this option does not suit you. It is not worth leaving a reservation immediately for a long time, since upon check-in many disadvantages may be revealed, and the money will not be returned. It is not difficult to rent a house; the indigenous population offers many options. You should look for "House for rent" signs.

Meal fee

A traveler even with the most modest budget will not go hungry - the price tags for food here are low. However, Filipino food cannot be called diverse. Many of the dishes offered consist of the same products - meat, rice with additives, soups. But fruits are presented in abundance.

In the central part of the island there are many cafes, food courts and other food outlets. At food courts the cost will be slightly higher than in cafeterias.

Overview of approximate food prices (in pesos):

• a bowl of soup from 35 to 70;
• small pork kebab - 12;
• unleavened rice - 10, and rice fried with garlic - 25;
• grilled shrimp and squid - 35 and 85, respectively;
• rice with chicken - 85;
• one chicken wing - 40, breast - 45;
• seafood plate - up to 50;
• chicken liver - 20;
• tea and coffee - 15;
• beer - 40.

The cheapest can be called Hard Kock Kafe, but its downside is that the menu is very limited. Ice Blue cafe serves good fish and pork dishes. They also offer delicious fruit shakes. You can taste excellent cocktails at Cou cou cafe. You should not order European dishes, even if they are on the list - there will be a noticeable difference from the usual dishes.

Here you can try the national dish called dangit - fried chicken with rice, wrapped in banana leaves. Other traditional dishes are sold mainly from street stalls. The dish is called egg balut - these are duck eggs in which the fruit has not yet fully developed.

Philippine prices for alcoholic drinks are not inflated. The local beer San Migue has a pleasant taste; the fee starts from 30 p., it will be a little more expensive in bars. Among European varieties you can find Heineken, Corona, Budweiser.
There is also a market in the center with many fruit stalls.

Fruits cost the following amounts:

• mango - up to 100;
• pomelo - up to 80;
• papaya - about 50;
• bananas - about 40;
• apples - from 40 per kg;
• coconut - from 20 per piece;
• tangerines - from 5 for 1 piece.

Beaches and entertainment

It is better to relax in the Philippines on the Bantayan coast. There are three main beaches on the island territory, which is not much, but there are no complaints about their arrangement and quality.

SugarBeach (sometimes called Kotabeach after the hotel of the same name nearby). It stretches 2 kilometers in length. The water is crystal clear and the entrance to the sea is perfect. Granulated sugar is great for playing on. In January, nearby hotels put out their sun loungers. The main feature is the V-shape, which is why both sunset and sunrise can be observed from one place.

Alice Beach. It starts from the ferry station and is considered the best place to watch the sunrise. There are always sunbeds and umbrellas here, even though there are only a few of them. The sand is slightly yellowish from shells and pebbles.

Maya Beach. It has a very short line, which means that during low tides it takes a long time to reach the water. There is an excellent hotel very close by.

Other entertainment options include a boat tour to Virgin Island, which costs P1,200 per day, including a very tasty lunch. This is a prime spot for snorkelers as it is home to the closest coral reef.

Nature lovers should visit the mangrove garden, entrance fee is 50 p. Here you can watch turtles, fish and birds. Oktong Cave is located next to the hotel of the same name, so its guests can swim in the underground pool for free. Other tourists will have to pay 100 p.

It is also recommended to visit the ancient Catholic church in Sante Fe, visit the tennis court and admire the cockfights. For all visits it is better to rent a motorbike. A simple scooter will cost 200 p. per day, a bike with a semi-automatic transmission will cost 250, and a full-fledged motorcycle will cost 300. It should be taken into account that the island roads are very bad, with holes and potholes. This is the first disadvantage of Bantayan.

Other negative points include:

• pestering traders;
• power outages;
• during low tides the sea becomes shallow, making swimming uncomfortable;
• monotonous food;
• poorly developed infrastructure.

When to go to the archipelago?

Having decided where to relax in the Philippines, you need to decide on the optimal period for the trip. The high season is considered to be the period from November to April. It is at this time that the water and air heat up to high temperatures, and heavy rains stop. The traveler will have to get used to the fact that his clothes will always remain a little damp at this time.

March is best suited to those who want the weather conditions to be less hot. During this period, divers can observe the spring spawning of fish. Those who are afraid of seismic activity are advised to go here in February, when its values ​​are minimal. But house prices may rise slightly compared to other periods. The heat is subsiding, and you can claim a beautiful and even tan.

If the vacation takes place in September, then you need to take into account that there will still be precipitation, although it will already begin to decline. There will not be many hot days, so the risk of burning is reduced. Many foreigners prefer this season because of the possibility of successful fishing.

Where is the best place for families with children to go? While Bantayan is recommended for its tranquility, Bohol offers more tranquility with more varied food options, the opportunity to visit a marine sanctuary and a greater selection of clinics in case of emergencies. The coastal area is quite safe; the water will only reach your waist for a long time. Preference should be given to the central and western parts of the archipelago. If a typhoon happens, they are the safest.

Every traveler has different parameters for where to be in the Philippines. It all depends not only on the traveler’s wallet, but also on age, the nature of the trip and personal hobbies. Couples with children are not recommended to go on an excursion into the jungle - there is a risk of meeting snakes and spiders.

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The Philippines is a group of islands located in southeast Asia, washed by the Pacific Ocean. The country is famous for its mild climate, picturesque nature, and mysterious healers. Tourists and travelers from all over the planet flock here all year round. They are attracted by crystal clear water, sandy beaches, and a rich underwater world.

The Philippine coast offers vacationers a lot of sports entertainment: kayaking, windsurfing, yachting, spearfishing. After an active holiday, you can lie with great pleasure on the wonderful local beaches, fortunately there are no problems with this.

Best beaches in the Philippines

White Beach

The name of the beach speaks for itself. A five-kilometer strip of snow-white sand along the ocean will not leave any tourists indifferent. There are many quite inexpensive hotels, bars and restaurants along the entire coastline. White Beach is rightfully one of the hundred best beaches on the planet. But the distinctive feature of this place is its calm, cozy atmosphere and not very large crowds of people (except for April-May, when the school holidays begin). There are practically no corals here, so diving enthusiasts will have to take a boat to the nearest reef. From November to April is the traditional time of influx of windsurfers.

Honda Bay

The bay, located on the island of Palawan, traditionally attracts diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. This place has only recently become popular among vacationers, so the infrastructure here is not so developed - there are very few shops and restaurants. Honda Bay has snow-white beaches and picturesque corals around them.

Malapasca

The small island only recently took a place in the ranking of the best beaches in the world. Malapasca is located next to the island of Cebu. The attraction is the large population of local sharks, which attracts the attention of divers from all over the world. The best time to relax on the island is February-May, when the weather is dry and warm.

Bantayan

Bantayan is located 15 kilometers from Cebu Island. It is famous for its crystal clear water and fine white sand. Bantayan is a relatively inexpensive resort. The influx of people here is quite significant, especially in the Santa Fe area. Those who want privacy should go to the island of Puo.

Puraran

One of the best surfing spots in the Philippines. On weekends, metropolitan residents from Manila come here. The resort is also famous for its beautiful white sand and excellent, wide beaches. Puraran is located in the rainiest region of the country, so the best time to visit would be April-June.

These are the best beaches in the Philippines, but the choice was not so easy. After all, nature has generously endowed the country with luxurious beaches.

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