Boracay has been in the news recently, albeit for all the wrong reasons, with the government looking for the island’s temporary shutdown from tourists due to various environmental infractions and concerns. And while the efforts to rehabilitate the once pristine island could be a case of too little, far too late – if for nothing else, it opens up the prospect for travelers to look for alternative holiday destinations in the country.
With this, Expat asks, “With Philippine summer season in full swing, which local destination are you eyeing, and why?”
Frank Reichenbach
Swiss
General Manager, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila
Palawan has been one of the places I’ve been eyeing. It brings out the beauty of the Philippines through its crystal clear waters, and then leaves you amazed with how nature was able to create such majestic sub-continents. Paradise!
Chris Nelson
British
Executive Chairman, British Chamber of Commerce Philippines
The British Chamber recently held a trade mission to Iloilo, following last year’s leg to Davao – both of which are excellent for tourism. I would love to return to Iloilo, its city preserved with heritage sites from the Spanish colonial and post-colonial eras, and with its delicious, diverse food. During our mission, we visited the Elizalde building for a dinner hosted by the Mayor – a splendid example of early 20th century Filipino architecture.
I would also like to explore the province’s highly regarded agri-eco farms, and nearby islands such as Guimaras and Sicogon for their beautiful beaches. When we visited Davao for last year’s mission, we saw that the city was growing, with the uprise of various malls, hotels, and restaurants. We stopped by Panabo city as part of the tour, which for businessmen would appeal to trade interests, especially as it is developing in infrastructure and agribusiness. The Mindanao region features several destinations I was not able to see during our business trip – Samal Island in Davao del Norte, Siargao, Camiguin, and General Santos.
Juliette Kwee
Dutch
Founder, World Experience Philippines
For this holiday season, I am eyeing the local destination of Gato Island. It is in the middle of the Visayan Sea, risng from the middle of the sea between Malapascua Island and the tip of the Bantayan.
Recently, I found out that Gato Island is the perfect dive destination! I have traveled a lot in the Philippines, all the way to Itbayat (Batanes). I love to dive, so I am very curious about this place. And with the high temperature in mind, it would be great to spend so much time in the water, just to cool down.
Tom Thurnherr
Swiss
CTO, Travel Buddy / Partner, Three Guys and a Grill
The one place I’m very excited to visit this summer is Siargao Island, which was always high up on my list as its not overdeveloped yet, and is supposed to be a place of wild nature with strong winds, sand, and wild water—and now easily accessible with a direct flight.
Another place I’d like to re-explore for long weekends is La Union, for its quirky hostels and coffee shops with hammocks by the beach.
Ligaya Gasataya
Dutch-Filipino
Founder, ManilaForKids
I’ve always wanted to travel to Batanes. I hope it is still one of those places where you won’t find too many people, and where you can fill your lungs with clean fresh air. I would love to go explore the island by foot and take photographs along the way. Summer is the best time to travel to Batanes!
