Beach Resort Guide
Philippines
Philippines Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
Paradisiacal images of white sand caressed by clear blue Pacific Ocean often spring to mind when you mention the Philippines. Boasting more than 7,000 islands, a coastline that measures a whopping 36,289km (22,548 miles) and masses of dense tropical rainforest, the country has a seemingly infinite number of pristine beaches. Its vast coastline throngs with busy resorts replete with watersports, whilst easily catering to those looking for a secluded stretch of sand at the same time.
Who goes there?
Tourists from East Asia, travelling for business and pleasure, are the biggest group of overseas visitors to the Philippines, followed by North Americans and Europeans. Travellers from Australia and the Pacific region also visit in significant numbers. Accommodation is available to suit all budgets, so the country attracts everyone from backpackers to celebrities.
Where in the world?
Situated in Southeast Asia, the Philippine archipelago comprises of 7,107 islands, around a seventh of which are inhabited. Stretching from Y'Ami Island in the north to Sibutu Island in the south, the archipelago extends over 1,850km (1,149 miles). Measuring some 36,289km (22,548 miles), the Philippines boast one of the longest coastlines in the world. Manila, the capital, is situated on the biggest island of Luzon.
When to go?
The Philippines bask in a tropical climate with temperatures typically ranging from 26-32°C (78-89°F) during the day. December to April tend to be the driest months, with heavy rain (from a daily shower to a full typhoon) common from June to October. Regional variations, though, can be considerable.
Beach
Thousands of kilometres of coastline mean that the Philippines are literally overflowing with world-class beaches. Regardless of resort choice, holidaymakers are bound to come across abundant white sand beaches, warm azure waters, and as many seaside activities as they want. One of the country's most popular beaches is White Sand on Boracay and is consistently ranked amongst the best on the globe. Good surfing on the islands of Pagudpud and Siargao meanwhile have spawned comparisons to Hawaii. Divers tend to make a beeline for Panglao, while Camiguin and El Nido are also stunning.
Beyond the beach
If you want to get away from the coast altogether, then trekking in the country's dense tropical rainforest is a good option. Some resort hotels organise adventure sports and mountain treks. Meanwhile, those who want to keep the water in their sights can take boat trips, or go island-hopping (with numerous tour operators packaging up this option to include ferries and accommodation). Swimming with whale sharks and dolphins and whale-watching excursions are also popular.
Family fun
Vast sandy beaches, warm seas and a raft of watersports are all on hand to keep young and older children happy. Islands geared up to family tourism, like Boracay and Mactan, also offer a wealth of land-based activities including cycling, horse riding, tennis and even golf lessons for kids. The warm hospitality extended to families (children are generally welcome in restaurants and bars) and hotels that genuinely cater to children (with the likes of swimming pools and kids' clubs) complete the package.
Retail therapy
Shopping opportunities vary dramatically depending on location. In larger resorts, tourist markets, night markets and hotel boutiques tempt. In bigger towns and cities, like Cebu (the country's oldest city), modern shopping centres and stores selling designer gear stand alongside traditional craft markets. At the latter, lampshades made from capiz shells and handmade guitars are the highlight. Manila is a serious shopping destination with a seemingly infinite number of malls - including the world's third largest, the Mall of Asia (www.smmallofasia.com) - and bustling markets.
A night on the town
In quiet resorts, nightlife is generally restricted to the hotel and ranges from relaxed lounge bars and live music to cultural shows and low-key discos. In metropolises, like Manila, Cebu and Angeles City, you can find everything from karaoke bars to thumping clubs and girlie bars. Amongst the resorts, Boracay has a reputation for some of the liveliest nightlife in the country, with everything from romantic candlelit dinners and laid-back piano bars to the 24-hour beach bars and clubs that front White Beach.
Eating out
Eating options vary from world cuisine to Filipino dishes like paellas, longanisa (sweet pork sausages), raw fish marinated in vinegar, and halo halo (a dessert that includes sweet beans, sweet potato, coconut milk and ice cream). In bigger resorts and cities, street food and independent restaurants are common, while hotel-dining is the only option in some resorts. On Boracay, candlelit service at Siena (www.shangri-la.com) sets the scene for a romantic seafood meal with elevated ocean views.
Getting around
Transport options are aplenty. For getting between cities and islands, there are domestic flights, ferries and traditional banca boats. Manila and other big urban centres are blessed with buses, taxis and jeepneys (a colourful cross between a jeep and a bus). Manila and Cebu also have tourist-orientated horse-drawn carriages called Kalesas, and the capital has both Light Rail Transit and Metro Rail Transit systems. In some resorts, you might also come across motorised tricycles. Car hire might also be available.
Exploring further afield
For those staying on Luzon, Manila is an obvious choice. The remnants of the 16th-century-walled city (Intramuros), Rizal Park and Paco Park are highlights. The mountain settlement and summer capital of Baguio City, meanwhile, tempts with cool temperatures and historic buildings. Often dubbed the ‘eighth wonder of the world', the UNESCO World Heritage Banaue Rice Terraces ascend the hillside in a series of stepping stones. They also boast myriad walking trails. On the islands of Bohol, Mindanao and the island province of Palawan, excursions into the tropical rainforest are popular.
Splashing out
Check into the Amanpulo resort (www.amanresorts.com/amanpulo/resort.aspx) on the private island of the same name. Crystal clear waters, fluffy white sand and gently swaying palms create a breathtaking setting in which to enjoy private dining on the beach, massages, snorkelling and diving in the offshore coral reef. Guests are accommodated in private hillside and treetop casitas, each with a golf cart to aid exploration of the island.
Flying in
Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
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