A travel & adventure blog by Kara Santos
When anyone mentions Palawan, most people usually think of three main spots: Puerto Princesa (the capital and gateway via the international airport), El Nido (the backpacker paradise on the mainland) and Coron (a separate island from the main Palawan Island). Busuanga is the largest Island of the Calamian archipelago in the Northern part of Palawan province generally known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes and snorkeling and diving spots.
The Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary is a small islet and mangrove area that can be found just off the coast of Masbate City, the capital of the province of Masbate. Located in the middle of seawaters of two barangays – Nursery and Tugbo, this 250-hectare marine sanctuary offers an easy and refreshing getaway very near the city. I didn’t expect to find such a beautiful destination just 15 minutes away by boat from the mainland.
Continue reading “Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary & Sandbar, Masbate City”
Masbate City, the capital of the province of the same name, is known as “The Rodeo Capital of the Philippines.” Mention Masbate and images of cowboys, rolling hills and the laid-back haciendero type ranch life come to mind. Largely agricultural, main activities here revolve around industries such as large farming, livestock and poultry raising.
Sta. Cruz Island is a small island in Zamboanga City famed for having a pink sand beach. I was awed by the island’s beauty when I first visited in 2013. I was a bit worried when it started gaining popularity because National Geographic included it in a list of the best beaches in the world. While such a distinction can ruin a place and put it in danger of over-development, I was glad to see that the island remained as beautiful and pristine as ever when I returned several years later for in time for their Summer Festival.
Of all the places we visited in Lombok, Indonesia, Bukit Merese or Merese Hill was my favorite. Located at Tanjung Aan beach in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Bukit Merese offers the most stunning and jaw-dropping scenery. Prior to my trip, I didn’t really know much about Lombok except that it was being positioned as an alternative to the more popular island of Bali. Our brief visit to these scenic hills overlooking the beach was a pleasant surprise.
The Gili Islands (or simply the Gilis) are three small islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – that lie a short distance west of Bali in Lombok, Indonesia. While Bali is world-famous for its party scene, the Gilis are becoming more popular on the radar of international travelers’ as “the next go-to destination,” because of their untouched and laid-back appeal.
Continue reading “Travel Guide: Gili Islands, Lombok, Indonesia”
The Gigantes Group of Islands, popularly known as Islas de Gigantes or “Islands of Giants” in Spanish are a remote cluster of islands in the northernmost part of Iloilo province in the Philippines. The Gigantes Islands consists of about ten islands: the two largest being Gigantes Norte (North Gigantes) and Gigantes Sur (South Gigantes).
The province of Capiz in Panay Island is a rising eco-tourism destination that has a lot to offer for different types of travelers. History buffs can visit sites of historic and religious interest, nature-trippers can venture out and explore the off-the-beaten natural tourist spots like islands and waterfalls, while culture buffs can enjoy the province’s rich handicrafts.
With Holy Week coming up and summer in full swing, you know the most accessible and popular beaches are going to get pretty crowded. For those looking for peace and privacy for beach camping trips, Inaladelan Island Resort in Palawan is a great choice. This 12-hectare private island and camping paradise off the coast of Port Barton in Palawan offers a stunning getaway.
Palawan is often cited in news features and magazines as one of the best islands in the world. And if you’ve been there, you’ll probably agree. Limestone rock formations, turquoise sea, white-sand beaches, fresh seafood, friendly locals and peaceful vibe. This tropical paradise offers the best representation of the Philippines.
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