The Philippines destination was named ‘The Most Beautiful Island in the World’ by Condé Nast Traveller… but it’s still a little off the beaten track, so you’re less likely to run into your next door neighbour than if you take a trip to Fiji or Thailand.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River has been named a Unesco World Heritage Site and is considered one of the natural wonders of the world. You travel inside a mountain, seeing rock formations that have been created over thousands of years, including the area nicknamed ‘The Cathedral’, which is thousands of metres high.
El Nido Cove is pure tropical paradise: white sand beaches, water so warm and clear it’s like being in a bath, and interesting sea life makes it wonderful for snorkelling enthusiasts. You can do a full day snorkelling tour – including lunch, made right there on the beach – for about $44. Our New Zealand dollar does well there.
The Filipinos love their fish and meat – the food is fresh, varied and tasty. Fish is plucked from the sea and cooked right in front of you, there are juicy mangos available everywhere and an eye-wateringly delicious amount of pork. Also, forget what you know about the bland, sugary coconut water you get in a packet. The real stuff, cracked open and drunk from the coconut, is extraordinary.
Owing to its rich history, the Philippines is heavily influenced by Spanish, Malaysian, Chinese and American culture. The Filipino are a lot of fun – karaoke is a national pastime – they love their puns and they invented a possibly lethal cocktail named after a midget action star. Called the Weng Weng, it’s a mix of rum, bourbon, vodka, scotch, tequila, brandy and pineapple juice.
Words: Sarah Murray
