Philippines – Awesome Places to Visit

Coron – Dive one of the best wreck dive sites in the world

Stunning aerial view of the crystal-clear lagoons and rugged limestone cliffs of Coron, Philippines.

If you were to choose just one destination to visit and explore before you die, it ought to be nowhere else other than Coron in the Philippines.

Coron is much more than a mere tropical island in the Palawan province. It is one of the rawest and most unspoiled lands in Asia.

The magnificent black limestone cliffs gracefully give way to sandy beaches and coral reefs. You can’t help but not blink at all while kayaking and island hopping in Coron, Philippines.

What is Coron famous for, you ask?

The Tangat Islet provides a unique experience of wreck diving at the very sight of a major battle between the U.S. and Japan, during World War II.

Today Coron Bay is one of the best wreck dive sites in the world. During an air raid of the Americans in World War II a whole fleet of Japanese war and transport ships was sunk off the coast. Ten of them are very well preserved and can be dived.

Colorful coral gardens and diverse fish species seen while scuba diving in Coron's clear waters. — Discover the underwater marvels of Coron while scuba diving, from colorful coral gardens to diverse marine species.

The thrilling dive, along with the fascinating snorkels amidst crystal clear turquoise blue waters makes it a must-visit place.

On the tour, you even have the rare opportunity to see a wreck as a non-diver. The Skeleton Wreck is still very well preserved and starts just below the water surface.

When is the best time to visit Palawan Island?

We recommend experiencing the beautiful island of Coron in Palawan, the Philippines between December and April. During this time the weather is dry, and there are fewer chances of tsunamis.

Snorkelers enjoying the vibrant underwater world of the coral reefs in Coron, teeming with marine life. — Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Coron’s coral reefs, a haven for snorkelers and marine life enthusiasts.

How to get from Manila to Coron?

You can use both flights and ferry to go from Manila to Coron:

Flights: Probably the most opted way, in this route you need to book a Manila to Busuanga flight to reach the Coron Airport. The trip takes around an hour.

Ferry: This is a cheaper option and is best for students. It takes 15-30 hours, by the way!

What to do in Coron, Palawan?

Most activities take place above or below water. With boats, you can discover hidden lakes, lagoons, and uninhabited islands around Coron Town on different tours. Prices are similar everywhere and all tours are full day.

The iconic Barracuda Lake in Coron, known for its unique underwater rock formations and clear waters. — Explore the mysterious depths of Barracuda Lake in Coron, famed for its unique underwater landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Obviously, you must indulge in Island hopping and snorkeling around reefs.

Go trekking in the luscious green jungles or best to Mount Tapyas and enjoy some spectacular views of nearby Islands.

Relax peacefully after the tiring trek at the Manquint Hot Spring.

Go Kayaking around the mesmerizing mangroves surrounding the Kingfisher Park and in the famous Twin Lagoon.

Don’t miss out on the beautiful sightseeing at Barracuda Lake and Kayangan Lake and take some photos.

Chill at the humble Banol Beach.

About Island Hopping

If you don’t have that much time, you should go straight to the Highlights of Coron Tour, where you will visit all the major points in one day – including Coral Garden, Kayangan Lake, and Twin Lagoon.

The start is 8:00 am at the travel agency where you booked. From there you will be taken by tricycle to the harbor and assigned to a boat. Around 16:30 o’clock you are back in the harbor.

Lunch on a lonely beach and the entrance fees are usually included in the price. Snorkeling equipment and water shoes are recommended. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent it for a small fee.

Where to stay in Coron, Palawan?

Zenvea: Among the top-rated exotic stays, we have Zenvea which provides everything you need for a grand Coron, Philippines vacation.

MO2 Westide Lagoon Coron: It is another of our top favorites, being one of the best-rated as well.

Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel: Provides great views of the ocean.

Charms Hotel: Among the best-rated accommodations, this small hotel on the outskirts of Coron comes with a budget-friendly price.

Corto del Mar Hotel: It has its own restaurant and a stylish private pool.

Everything in Coron is a true hidden gem. This island is the gateway to heaven you never knew existed.

Surrender yourself to the fabulous shallow-water coral reefs, after throwing on your scuba gear.

The diverse marine life full of playful fishes, sea serpents, and sea turtles is all ready to welcome you to Coron in the beautiful Philippines.

Be Enchanted by The Mysterious Chocolate Hills of The Philippines

Panoramic view of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Philippines, showcasing their distinctive conical shapes

The chocolate hills of Bohol are a significant tourist attraction in the Philippines. These chocolate mountains were formed naturally on the island of Bohol in the Philippines over millions of years.

From lush green in the rainy season, colors change to chocolate brown as soon as the dry season arrives.

Some 1,700 chocolate mountains extend across 20 square miles, rising as high as 400 feet – these Chocolate Hills of the Philippines never fail to amuse tourists.

What is the story of Chocolate Hills, Bohol?

The said stories of how the hills formed are quite funny, to be honest. Some say that two giants fought by hurling rocks, sand, and boulders at each other. The fight subsided, and they became friends, after fighting in this way for days. They left but forgot to undo the mess they created! This is how the hills came to be.

Another legend with a romantic inclination suggests that a powerful and youthful giant named Arogo once fell in love with Aloya, a simple mortal human being. Aloya somehow died, and Arogo ended up sobbing for days. His tears after drying formed the Chocolate Hills of Philippines.

Aerial view of the Chocolate Hills, revealing their extensive spread across the Bohol landscape. — Experience an aerial perspective of the Chocolate Hills, revealing their extensive and mesmerizing spread across Bohol’s landscape.

How were the Chocolate Hills of the Philippines formed then?

The land’s limestone base came to existence from the skeletons of sea life. Geological processes gradually lifted the Bohol’s rock, and now water slowly erodes it.

The thing is that weathering is known to carve out limestone all over the world, but the uniformity of shape is what makes the hills unique. Even geologists have not yet concluded this matter.

"Close-up of the grass-covered Chocolate Hills, resembling giant molehills against a blue sky. — Marvel at the close-up view of the grass-covered Chocolate Hills in Bohol, resembling giant natural sculptures under the blue sky.

Chocolate Hills viewing platform

The highest hill, at about 120m, is 5km from the village of Camen. On this hill a viewing platform has been built, from which you have a wide view over the Chocolate Hills.

To enjoy this stunning view, a certain amount of effort is required from the visitor. There are still 214 steps to climb before you can overlook the wide expanse of the Chocolate Hills on the crest of the highest Chocolate Hill.

The hills are covered with hard grass and low bushes, which turn brown at the end of the dry season. This color and the even shape of the hills gave rise to its name. At other times of the year, however, the hills are green and an association with chocolate only occurs in the minds of visitors. This does not detract from the admiration, on the contrary, many people decide to come back in the dry season to see the Chocolate Hills in their chocolate color.

Lush greenery surrounding the Chocolate Hills during the rainy season, enhancing their beauty. — Visit the Chocolate Hills during the rainy season to see them surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing their natural beauty.

How to get to Chocolate Hills of Bohol?

From Tagbilaran
Get on a bus at the Tagbilaran Mall bus station to Carmen city and get off at the Chocolate Hills stop. From here, it is a walkable distance from the ticket office. You may also hire or rent a car to the ticket office. ‘Habal-Habal’ transport is another option.

From Tubigon
While hiring motorcycles and tricycles rides are a more convenient option, you can also first go to Carmen city by bus and then follow the same route as above. You get buses to Carmen from Tubigon bus terminal.

From Alona Beach
It’s better to book a tour from here. Well, you may also follow the route from Tagbilaran to Carmen by first going to Tagbilaran.

Where to stay near the Chocolate Hills, Bohol?

Providence Travellers Inn und Spa: Hostels are perfect for solo travelers and students. This one is located in Tagbilaran, has a swimming pool, restaurant, garden of its own.

Villa del Carmen Bed & Breakfast: At a very comfortable and intriguing location in Carmen, in direct neighborhood to the chocolate hills.

Henann Resort Alona Beach: For those who like it a little more luxurious. Visit the chocolate hills, with your base at the world-famous Alona Beach.

Final thoughts

Around Bohol, some hills are terraced and others form farmland. It is interesting to note that a similar pattern of islets lies just off the coast of the main island. Will these unique deposits of our earth, which have been formed over millions of years, eventually unite? What do you think?

First of all, the Chocolate Hills have been declared the third national geological monument of the country – which is great. But we can’t wait for them to receive the UNESCO World Heritage designation as well.

Boracay Island with its Amazing Beaches: Paradise on Earth

Pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters of White Beach on Boracay Island, Philippines.

Boracay Island is one of the most visited tourist destinations of the Philippines, despite its minuscule size of 11 square kilometers. Almost every single time you think of going on a vacation, one thing comes to mind – A serene beach with soft white sand and dancing palm trees. This is precisely what the Boracay Beaches are known for its tranquility and nightlife.

What is Boracay’s White Beach like?

Boracay Island is mostly famous because of its beaches with powdery white sand, vibrant community, and stunning sunsets. The entire stretch of the White Beach consists of three stations. Station 1 is where you find luxurious hotels and extensive sports activities. Station 2 is the epicenter of the region- with the D’Mall, stalls, and lots of crowd. Station 3 is apt for loners and people who want silence and peace. Here the water is quite more in-depth than other stations.

Traditional Filipino outrigger boats, known as 'bangkas,' lined up along Boracay's beach. — Explore Boracay’s coastal beauty aboard a traditional ‘bangka’ outrigger boat, a unique way to experience Filipino culture.

How to get to Boracay Beach?

To get there, fly to Caticlan or Kalibo, followed by a beautiful boat ride to Boracay via the Caticlan Jetty Port. Once on the island, get ready to soak up the sun and bask in the energy of the famed White Beach.

Best time to visit Boracay Island

The best time to visit these beaches is during its dry season of December to May. However, you may have to face overcrowding if you visit during the peak season of March to May or during national holidays.

Lush tropical hillside in Boracay offering hiking trails with panoramic island views. — Hike up Boracay’s lush tropical hillsides for breathtaking panoramic views of this idyllic island.

Things to do in Boracay

You won’t ever run out of exciting things to do in Boracay Island:

Go to Puka Beach, another great Boracay beach Parasailing: Get an adrenaline rush at the Bulabog Beach.

Island hopping: Sail from one island to another and experience a great variety of beaches and beach life.

Paddleboard by the beaches: An amusing sport for a twist to your relaxing holiday.

Helmet Diving: Befriend the abundant marine life beneath the blues as you dive.

Cliff Jump at Ariel’s point: A raw cliff dive right into the sea – we would recommend opting for this thrilling adventure.

Paraw Sailing: Sea yourself melt into the teal ocean as you step

Hang out at D’Mall: And buy a souvenir, only to return to the soft sands again the next day!

Indulge in the vivid nightlife of the island.

Don’t miss out on the beachy delicacies and drinks native to Boracay Island.

Snorkelers exploring the vibrant marine life and coral gardens in the clear waters around Boracay. — Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around Boracay to witness its vibrant marine life and stunning coral gardens.

Where to stay in Boracay?

The District Boracay: A luxurious hotel right on the shore, offering a private pool and classy dining.

Coast Boracay: An exceptional seafront resort with the highest public rating.

Henann Crystal Sands Resort: Known for its beautiful and luxurious outdoor swimming pools.

Remember, umbrellas, deckchairs, beach beds, etc. are prohibited in the beaches, on the sand. Moreover, smoking, drinking, and eating aren’t allowed in the sands as well.

So, you only get to see a raw and naked beach, devoid of urban beach accessories and disturbing activities. Cool, isn’t it?

To further enchant you, this famous relaxation spot got awarded and recognized as the 2012 Best Island in the World by Travel + Leisure, an international travel magazine.