Boracay, Aklan

Growing in popularity in the past few years, Siargao is most famously known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines”. Surfers from all over the world visit to catch the perfect Cloud 9 swell. While it has long been a surfer’s paradise, regular beach lovers and vacationers are slowly discovering the island’s other charms, such as its laidback way of life, beautiful rock and cave pools, neighboring islets, beaches, and untouched landscapes. Its natural beauty is undeniable, some are even calling it ‘the new Palawan’.

Just like Palawan, Boracay has enjoyed the title “World’s Best Island” for its powdery white sand beaches and glorious sunset views. It has long attracted travellers from all over the world, and as such has taken some wear and tear through the years. Because of massive commercialization, the island is oversaturated with establishments and structures and is often crowded with more people than it can handle. Sewage and waste problems are also beginning to worsen. Recently, the Philippine President ordered a complete six-month closure of the island, effective April 26, to allow its rehabilitation. Hopefully, this is the beginning of Boracay’s restoration to its former glory.

Strictly speaking, Calaguas is a group of islands, east of Manila in the province of Camarines Norte. While a handful of islands make up the area, the island of Tinaga is best known and most frequented for its pristine three-kilometer stretch called Mahabang Buhangin. Not nearly as distinguished as Boracay or Palawan, the islands of Calaguas remain unadulterated. Fancy accommodations are also not an option in Mahabang Buhangin, so it has become popular camping ground for the adventurousislander. Surrounding rolling terrain and hiking trails also present a more active alternative to lying on the beach.