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Travel + Leisure
13-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Beach Was Named No. 1 in Asia—and It Has Powdery White Sand, Crystal-clear Waters, and Majestic Rock Formations
The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands, and this stunning archipelago is famous for its natural beauty and diverse coral reefs. This island nation is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. In fact, World's 50 Best Beaches just named Entalula Beach in Palawan, a province in the Philippines, the best beach in Asia—and the second best beach in the world. Entalula Beach is part of the El Nido region of Palawan. Its sandy white shores are surrounded by clear, turquoise water. This tropical paradise is surrounded by looming limestone cliffs and dotted with lush vegetation. Visitors can snorkel through vibrant coral reefs that are just a short swim from the shore, or they can search for hidden coves by paddle board or kayak. After a long day in the water, the palm trees and powdery sand provide the perfect spot to enjoy a good book or suntan session. Entalula Beach is largely beloved thanks to its seclusion. Visitors can only access the beach by boat, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The surrounding islands ensure that the journey will be just as beautiful as the destination. This also makes the beach far less busy than others in the El Nido region, and the peace and quiet allow travelers the chance to fully immerse themselves in nature. The beach is just as beautiful below the water as it is above it. Scuba divers enjoy exploring the west bay of Entalula Island, which has a beautiful coral garden and El Nido's famous limestone wall diving site. Divers commonly spot sharks, whales, dolphins, and turtles off the coast of the island. There are many tours that take travelers from El Nido to Entalula Beach. These also often include visits to the Secret Lagoon, Cudugnon Cave, and other islands in the area. For the most serene experience, travelers are advised to opt for the early morning tours that avoid the crowds. In addition to its gorgeous beaches, the Philippines is also known for its bustling cities, delightful cuisine, and warm hospitality. This is a country where each island opens the door to a new adventure–whether it is swimming with dugongs in Calauit Island or hiking Bohol's Chocolate Hills.
Telegraph
12-06-2025
- Telegraph
The perfect two-week holiday in the Philippines
The Philippines, an archipelago of 7,641 islands on Asia's eastern edge, may still be off the radar for many travellers (it receives a fraction of the British visitors that neighbouring Thailand does, and fewer than both Cambodia and Vietnam), but its profile is on the rise – meaning now is the time to go. It is, of course, a long way to travel (there are no direct flights, so it'll take you somewhere in the region of 18 hours), so it makes sense to allow two weeks of island-hopping to truly absorb its ever-changing diversity. An ideal trip should include stops in Cebu and Vigan, for a taste of the country's Spanish colonial legacy, as well as a visit to the islands around El Nido, for world-class beaches and coral reefs; to Bohol, to meet tiny bug-eyed tarsiers; and Banaue, to see its amphitheatre of rice-terraces. A perfect trip should also incorporate plenty of opportunities to sample the country's meaty, soy-and-vinegar infused cuisine – unlike any other in Asia – especially in Manila, where the restaurant scene explodes with contemporary options. But the real highlight? The Filipinos themselves – the friendliest, most upbeat people in Asia. The level of English is extremely high throughout the country, so cheerful conservation comes easily, and despite having been through a great deal of hardship – colonialism, Japanese occupation, Marcos's political dictatorship – they've nevertheless come out smiling… and singing a lot of karaoke. Days 1 & 2 Cebu City Conquistadors and Catholics Aim for a flight which gets you into the Philippines' second city – located on the eastern coast of Cebu Island – by early evening (Cathay Pacific 's overnight flight from London, for example, connects via Hong Kong and arrives at 6pm). The airport is set on tiny Mactan Island, so check in to nearby Crimson Resort and Spa (B&B doubles from £151) and spend the evening relaxing after your long journey. The following morning, it's time to head into the hurley-burly of Cebu City – the country's most historic city – roughly an hour's drive from the resort. A taxi will cost you between 100-300 Philippine pesos (£1.30-4), and the drive will take you across the spectacular Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway, which meanders over the sea for 5.5 miles. Start at Plaza Sugbu, where you'll find a replica of Magellan's Cross, erected in 1515 to signal Spain's arrival, outside a cavernous 16 th -century basilica that's home to a sacred doll-like relic called Santo Niño. The Spanish got serious here in 1565 and built Fort San Pedro, though its 8ft-thick coral-stone walls now enclose a frangipani tree courtyard. For lunch, migrate to The Barracks inside Carbon Market, where hawker food stalls cook-up fresh sizzling butter crab and Cebu favourite, tuslob buwa (pork liver and brains). Each dish will cost you roughly £2-4. Walk off lunch by visiting the historic houses which survived America's 1945 bombardment (intended to drive out the Japanese) – a particularly excellent example is period-furnished Casa Gorordo, which dates from 1863, where you'll find polished mahogany floors and coral glass window (plus Bo's Coffee café downstairs, where you can pick up a reviving iced latte). Next, make time for a spot of shopping at Anthill Fabric Gallery, an emporium which showcases fine Cebuano weaving, and at Alegre, where you can watch guitars being made from mango wood. Finish on a Spanish theme with tapas at Enye, watching waiters blow-torch seared tuna steaks table-side. Days 3 & 4 Southern Cebu Island A local feast Head south for an artisan foodie day. A favoured pitstop is the city of Carcar, roughly one hour and 45 minutes drive from Cebu City, famed for lechon (whole roasted pig) and chicharron (similar to pork scratchings). Mayu Restaurant is a popular place for both, where a 500g portion of the latter (for two) costs £7. An hour further south, the coastal town of Argao reveals an imposing 1780s coral-stone church, St Michael Archangel, where the belltower once doubled as a lookout for pirates. Argao is a hub for cottage industry food producers, so make time for a visit to the family Guilang factory, which has been making chocolate tablets since 1948. It's the staple of a Cebuano breakfast of sikwate (oozingly thick hot chocolate) with sticky rice coconut triangles wrapped in banana leaves and fresh mango – and will likely be the best 60p you ever spend. Also worth a stop is Jesse Magallones, which bakes the popular fiesta cake, torta, made from tuba (coconut sap) and lard, and Leonilo Sedon, which ferments suka pinakurat hot and spicy coconut vinegar, vital to Filipino cooking. Tonight, check-in at the newly opened Cebu Beach Club (B&B doubles from £173), where 36 clifftop rooms look out over the Camotes Sea toward Bohol Island. If you've time, end your day by swimming with sea-turtles off the white-sand beach below. Back to nature It's time to get active. Cross Cebu Island's rain-forested spine to a protected marine reserve, Tañon Strait, set in a sea channel facing Negros Island, then take a small boat to Moalboal for the unique experience of swimming with tens of thousands of sardines near Panagsama Beach. For a quirky lunch, try fish sutukil at Lola Tanciang's Seafood Paluto – the name ('su-tu-kil') is a portmanteau of grill, soup and ceviche, all prepared using the same piece of fish, typically grouper. After lunch, hike the spearmint-coloured Matutinao River to a swimming hole beneath the 42ft-high Kawasan Waterfall. Canyoneering is popular here, with excursions by Kawasan Dante's Peak Canyoneering costing £28 and including lunch. In far Southern Cebu Island, tours take guests to snorkel with whale-sharks, with trips from £23. Days 5 & 6 Panglao and Bohol Islands A little limestone brother Take the two-hour ferry or ' bangka ' (traditional outrigger boats) from Cebu to neighbouring Bohol, one of the Philippines most visited islands. Find somewhere to stay on tiny Panglao, an island which sits at Bohol's south-western tip and hosts the pick of the two islands' beach resorts. The most popular is the 88-room Bohol Beach Club (B&B doubles from £160), set on Dumaluan Beach's fine white sand (they also run diving and snorkelling trips to Pamilacan Island, to see coral gardens, turtles and spinner dolphins, from £80 per person), while the boutique Amarela Resort (B&B doubles from £113) is a more classic option and has a breezy sea-view restaurant serving Filipino fare. For sundowners, head to the neoclassical-looking Villa Umi, where there's a stylish bar right on the beach. Panglao's craggy karst limestone is omnipresent, from the 19 th -century Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (built from fossiliferous coral stone) to the island's subterranean swimming lagoons, natural sinkholes known as cenotes (the most popular of which is Hinagdanan cave – though opt for an early dip if you want to beat the crowds). For lunch, Bohol Bee Farm is a whimsical farm-to-plate restaurant with views to Mindanao Island. Its sharing farm platter (£37) features chops, baked tuna, ribs, garden salad, and paper-thin spring rolls, mostly made with local produce, which supports the livelihoods of more than 500 farmers and staff. Chocolate Hills and bug-eyed critters Spend a day exploring Bohol Island's eclectic sights. Its UNESCO Global Geopark status is spearheaded by the outstanding Chocolate Hills, 17,000 rounded coral hills weathered smooth like a basket of eggs, so named because the dry season (November-May) causes the vegetation to take on a brown hue. Avoid the coach-parties to the popular Carmen viewpoint by visiting before 8am. Equally iconic are tarsiers, tiny prosimian primates with trademark huge, wide eyes. The easiest place to spot them is at a tarsier sanctuary at Corella, where you'll see them dozing in the trees. Similarly strange are Bohol's remarkable 'dinosaur eggs', or Asín tibuók, oblong balls of salt made from tidal water and burnt coconut husks. Visit the Manongas family workshop to see their extraordinary processing of these salt eggs (and buy one for £11). A non-beach alternative to Panglao is Loboc River Resort (B&B doubles from £133) – 35 cottages immersed in riverside forest. For dinner, head to Tagbilaran for Bohol's most contemporary offering, Animula Tasting Room, which serves Filipino favourites such as beef asado with a twist, in an ultra-modern space. Day 7, 8 & 9 Palawan Island Hit the beach It's a 1hr 45 minute flight from Bohol to the West Philippines Sea's adventure playground, Palawan Island. Beach tourism's hub is El Nido, set among jagged limestone islands that are home to the silkiest beaches and priciest resorts. El Nido's 237,000-acre marine reserve is a mosaic of mangroves and corals; ideal for kayaking and snorkelling with superb diving. Lio Beach is a 4km stretch of white sand facing Cadlao Island, with plenty of upmarket food and hotel offerings. The 153-room Seda Lio Hotel (B&B doubles from £290) is backed by rainforest, with garden rooms by a large infinity pool. If you fancy a break from the meat-heavy traditional cuisine, Lio's upscale beach dining scene offers more health-conscious options, including Saboria, which serves lighter fusion Philippine cuisine, PLNT+HRVST (vegetarian-vegan) and Punta Playa, a breezy Mediterranean bistro. Two of El Nido's finest beaches are Duli – also the reserve's best surf spot – and Nacpan, 4km of golden sand facing a private island owned by boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao. Stick around for the night by booking into the 16-room Angkla Resort (B&B doubles from £333), which is built around a tropical courtyard, or opt for air-conditioned glamping at Nacpan Beach Glamping (doubles from £240 per person). Younger crowds might prefer the mass market beach scene around downtown El Nido, which unleashes its inner Pattaya vibe. It's worth a gawp to see the party and bar scene or get a cheap massage, and for surprisingly excellent sushi and seafood restaurants – like the earthy and inexpensive Sea Jane Resto Bar, where fish, lobster or prawns are grilled fresh, and upstairs tables overlook Bacuit Bay. Castaway Staying on a private island can be eye-wateringly expensive (even in the Philippines, where the likes of Banwa will set you back a cool £73,000 per night), but there are more affordable resorts amid the offshore limestone islands. One such option is Miniloc Island Resort (all-inclusive doubles from £733), a laid-back spot with thatched rooms (some overwater) located a 20-minute speedboat transfer from Lio Beach. It offers complementary kayaking, as well as snorkelling on a technicolour house reef which teems with tropical fish. Move over Ha Long Bay The limestone islands and pinnacles bear a passing resemblance to Vietnam's famous Ha Long Bay, albeit without the latter's armada of junk-boats. With more than one-thousand islands to explore, various companies offer boat trips which combine three or four with lunch and snorkelling. Popular routes include Snake Island (for panoramic views); Cudugnon Cave; and the 50ft-high Cathedral Cave on Pinasil Island (large enough to drive a speedboat inside); Entatula Island – which was recently cited as having one of the world's best beaches – and Paglugaban Island, for snorkelling on its effervescent coral reef. For your final night before moving on to the big city, take the opportunity to splurge at private island Pangulasian Eco-Luxury Resort (B&B doubles from £1,060), where 50 luxurious villas are immersed in rainforest and surrounded by coral reefs. Day 10 Manila Jeepneys and the world's oldest Chinatown Take the one-hour flight from El Nido to Manila, the Philippines' gloriously chaotic capital city on Luzon Island, dissected by the Pasig River. The grindingly slow road traffic is made (slightly) more bearable by the fleets of Jeepneys – colourful customised US jeeps which function as public transport, similar to tuk tuks. Much of Manila's architecture was obliterated during the Second World War, when the country was occupied by the Japanese and heavily bombed by the Americans. Nevertheless, evidence of its Spanish colonial legacy remains in the thick-walled Intramuros district, which has been largely rebuilt. The baroque Unesco-listed Church of Saint-Augustine is an original, however, having survived its blitzkrieg and now home to a fine museum of treasure from the galleon trade with Mexico (then known as New Spain). Opposite is a cosy Filipino bistro called Ristorante Delle Mitre – named after the bishops' headgear – which draws diners with its superlative chicken adobe (tender chicken marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic), the country's national dish. Head north and across the river, and you'll soon find yourself in Quiapo district, where the large market is fun to browse on foot, while the cathedral (officially called The Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno) houses the Philippines' most sacred object, the Black Nazarene statuette, which is paraded every January to crowds numbering well over a million. A short stroll westwards will bring you to Binondo, home to the world's oldest Chinatown in, where you'll find dim sum restaurants and Tao-Buddhist temples, as well as to a slither of surviving American art-deco around Escolta. It's here that you'll come upon the 1920s First Union Building, which hosts artisanal craft shops and a café, The Den, which offers excellent Filipino-bean coffees. For more war history, spend the afternoon at the American Cemetery – an hour's drive south-east, in Taguig – a sobering experience, with 16,800 marble crosses marking soldiers lost in the Second World War's Pacific theatre of war. For dinner, head to the fashionable nightlife hub of Makati, where Blackbird serves artistic pan-Asian dishes in an art-deco former American airport terminal, or to nearby Greenbelt, where Ember – the creation of the British-Filipino chef, Josh Boutwood – combines informality with fine cuisine. For drinks, head to Población district's wall-to-wall bars. Hip speakeasies include The Spirits Library, with its floor-to-ceiling bookcases of spirits, and Run Rabbit Run, a darkly lit cocktail bar. Stop by 32 nd -floor rooftop bar, Firefly Roofdeck, for magnificent night-time Manila views. End the day by checking into either The Bayleaf Hotel in the Intramuros district (B&B doubles from £97), an inexpensive four-star with excellent views of the city from its rooftop bar, or the iconic Peninsula Hotel (B&B doubles from £165) in Makati. Day 11 North Luzon Island Sand spas and fairy-tale gorges A few hours north from Manila is little-visited Inararo, where the Melanesian Aetas people manage ancestral lands which were covered in ash during Mount Pinatubo's 1991 eruption. Subsequent erosion has sculpted the most delicately beautiful fern-cloaked gorge, a fairy-tale mile-long loop which takes roughly an hour to complete on foot. A tour of th area – with a guide and driver – costs £80 with Pinatubo Mountaineiro, including lunch, a dip in geothermal hot springs at Puning, and a hot-sand spa. Day 12 Banaue Rice, and more rice A long day's drive into Luzon's north (by private car) will take you to Banaue, where the Unesco-listed rice-terraces date back 2,000 years, soaring into the Cordilleras. Check-in at Banaue town's Grand View Hotel (B&B doubles from £63) – where rooms have wonderful views of the sweeping terraces – then head out for a bite to eat at Uyami's Greenview Restaurant, the best local outlet in the area. All dishes come with rice, and – if you're lucky – occasional cultural displays by the Ifugao people. If time allows, hike into the amphitheatre of rice-terraces at small town Batad for awe-inspiring vistas. If you'd like to spend the night here instead, opt for Simon's View Inn and Restaurant (room-only doubles from £20). Day 13 Sagada The hanging coffins Two hours' drive along dramatic mountain roads leads northwest to Sagada, a remote community of the Igorot people who for millennia (until the arrival of Catholicism) buried their dead in coffins housed within – or hanging down on ropes from – cliffside caves. Seeing them is a macabre but fascinating spectacle, and one of immense cultural significance. In town, pay a visit to a superb gallery devoted to Eduardo Masferré, one of the Philippine's greatest photographers, whose works chronicle Igorot culture. Spend the night at one of Sagada's homely and simple options, including Masferré Country Inn (B&B doubles from £46) where rooms are adorned with photographs of Igorot culture, and Martha's Hearth (room-only doubles from £40). Bana's Coffee has won international awards for its roasted coffee and has a decent menu of local produce. Day 14 Vigan All things Spanish Another four hours on the road from Sagada is UNESCO-listed Vigan, where you'll find the complete colonial core of a 16 th -century Spanish city, the exquisite architecture of which is fused with Chinese and Ilocano motifs. Wander its cobbled streets, visit historic houses, and see the archbishop's palace, then – and as the sun goes down – join the promenade in Plaza's Salcedo and Burgos. For dinner, seek out Ilocano fish sauce-infused dishes such as pinakbet, at Café Uno 's corner restaurant or Café Leona. Several classical homes offer atmospheric stays: Hotel Luna (B&B doubles from £60) is built around a pretty internal patio, while Hotel Felicidad (B&B doubles from £40) has four-poster beds. Day 15 Head to Loag Airport for the hour-long flight back to Manila, and – if you've time – end your trip with a an explosion of culinary theatre at highly rated fine-dining spot Helm. How to do it When to go Perennially tropical, The Philippines has two distinct seasons – hot and dry. The drier and cooler season – when temperatures range from 25-30°C – is between December and early May. From May to October the weather is wetter, hotter and cyclone prone, though there are fewer crowds and refreshingly greener landscapes. What to book Cost effective Bamboo Travel (0207 7209285) tailor-makes trips similar to the one described. A 14-day island hopping holiday costs around £4,195 per person, including nights in Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Sagada, Banaue and El Nido, as well as international flights with Cathay Pacific, B&B accommodation, all transfers, and guided tours. Blow the budget Audley Travel (01993 838155) offers a 17-day combined Hong Kong & Luxury Tour of the Philippines from £10,375 per person (based on two travelling), featuring five-nights at the opulent Amanpulo Resort on Pamilacan Island, private transfers, flights from London via Hong Kong, and excursions. Know before you go Rather than expensive roaming, pick up an affordable local SIM card upon arrival at Manila or Cebu Airport (a 20GB allowance lasting 14 days will set you back around £8), or opt for an eSim. Taxi journeys are inexpensive using the downloadable app Grab, which functions like Uber. Most outlets accept debit cards, but it's worth carrying a small amount of cash for those few smaller ones which don't. US dollars are easiest to exchange. The whole country has patron saint fiestas throughout the year. Bohol has one every day during May. If offered, join these open house feasts to be welcomed like a long lost relative. A quick, free e-travel declaration should be completed before arrival.
Daily Mail
11-06-2025
- Daily Mail
I visited the real-life Neverland and met the 'Lost Boys' - there's only one way to get there
Finding Neverland was not on the agenda when I opened Google Maps and clicked through random destinations to decide my next holiday. Yet here I am on a desert island, surrounded by towering sea cliffs and shipwrecks along an ancient pirate route in the Palawan archipelago of the Philippines. The Lost Boys brought me here: to the uninhabited island of Cadlao, off the coast of El Nido. But rather than the characters imagined by J.M. Barrie, these Lost Boys are the crew of Tao Philippines, running group expeditions across the West Philippine Sea. These remarkable seafarers, many the sons of ex-pirates, were raised among the 11 islands we are exploring on a five-night cruise covering 155 miles (250km) from El Nido, on Palawan Island, to Coron, on Busuanga. They can navigate the archipelago without a map, catch fish from the boat, climb coconut trees and have a cheeky, but kind. sense of spirit. Our vessel for the first two days is a 74ft wooden Paraw, a traditional Filipino sailboat with tribal carvings and rigging, followed by a more modern boat to cross choppier waters. As we set sail from El Nido port, we are accompanied by a pod of dolphins leaping from the water just metres from the deck while hundreds of tropical butterflies soar between the sails. Laura Sharman visits the uninhabited island of Cadlao, off the coast of El Nido in the Philippines, with help from the 'Lost Boys', the crew of Tao Philippines These remarkable seafarers, many the sons of ex-pirates, were raised among the 11 islands Laura and her group explore on a five-night cruise covering 155 miles (250km) from El Nido Of the Philippines' 7,641 islands, we are staying on five of the most remote, sleeping in bamboo huts on otherwise deserted beaches with the bare essentials – a mattress, mosquito net, modest toilet block, and a picnic bench for sharing meals which are all included in the voyage. Some of the islands lack fresh water so our shower is alfresco, made from a hosepipe and a water tank hung from a tree. We're warned to keep our mouths closed while washing and use bottled water for teeth brushing to avoid an upset stomach. These secluded settings are made possible by Tao's collaboration with local councils which guarantees a minimal ecological impact on these otherwise unvisited islands, keeping them wild. Each day, the Lost Boys fish for our supper, reeling in yellowfin tuna, squid, tilapia and barracuda. This is then barbecued and served on a giant banana leaf with 'Filipino power' – their name for the country's staple dish, garlic rice. It's the definition of sea-to-plate. On our first night, here on Cadlao Island, the feast takes place under the light of our head torches and laughter fills the table, free from the distractions of electricity or Wi-Fi. Of the Philippines' 7,641 islands, Laura is staying on five of the most remote, sleeping in bamboo huts with just a mattress, mosquito net, modest toilet block, and a picnic bench for sharing meals Each day, the Lost Boys fish for the evening meal, reeling in yellowfin tuna, squid, tilapia and barracuda The Lost Boys know just where to drop the anchor for this hidden paradise and we swim to shore accompanied by a school of fish dancing at our feet. Its staggering limestone cliffs, dense vegetation and enchanting lagoon are reminiscent of Peter Pan's Neverland. Beyond its playful monkeys, fascinating monitor lizards and elusive snakes, this uninhabited gem stands as the largest island in the El Nido archipelago with the tallest peak, reaching 609 metres above sea level. And we have it all to ourselves for the night. The trumpeting of a conch shell marks the start of a new day and we set sail for Daracotan Island after an aubergine omelette on the beach. Starfish larger than my palm decorate the seabed and clownfish retreat into their shelters as we explore the El Nido Shipwreck - a tugboat wreck that succumbed to Typhoon Herming in 1987. But it's the deadly box jellyfish that are the most mesmerising marine life we see on our voyage, during the third night, spent on Culion Island. Approaching the shore via a tropical valley, we observe the enormous translucent creatures being swept beneath the boat's bow and I dread to think what would happen if I were to dive in for a swim. Yet the island's 23,000 residents seem largely unphased by their presence, wading out to their boats barefoot. Once known as the 'Island of No Return,' this haunting destination served as the world's largest leprosarium in the early 1900s during the American colonisation, the Lost Boys tell me. Many were banished here under Act 1711 of the Philippine Commission and up to 60 per cent of those treated did not survive their first four years on the island. What was a place of despair slowly evolved into a community of more than 400 households, leading to a sanitary system, hospital, theatre, town hall and school. Stepping onto the island via a rickety pontoon, I am grateful to hear that it is now leprosy-free. It's hard to imagine its dark history as we make our way to our bamboo huts beneath a forest canopy speckled with Pink Rain Lilies. Now it's a very different place. In a clearing bordered by fire torches, women from the neighbouring Coring village are offering a one-hour full body massage for just 1,500 Philippine Pesos (£20), with their children sat beside them playing on smartphones. And by the waterfront is now a manmade plunge pool overlooking the enchanting albeit jellyfish-infested valley. WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR TAO EXPEDITION A 30-litre dry bag to store your belongings for the trip while your main suitcase will remain on the boat Travel insurance including emergency evacuation cover Portable charger Refillable water bottle Cap or hat Sun protection Head torch Jellyfish guard Reef shoes and sandals Small towel and swimwear Lightweight rain jacket Sarong Anti-mosquito spray Rehydration salts and anti-diarrhea tablets Plasters Camera of choice Nearby, the Lost Boys are serving fried lentil balls with Filipino power and vegetables and our team leader Joshua is strumming a guitar by a crackling bonfire. The only activities - besides feasting - are sharing stories by the fire and dancing under the stars. Thirty-two miles (52km) away is our next stop Manlihan Island. Often referred to as Cobra Island, it is tied to a local legend which speaks of Japanese soldiers hiding treasure here during WWII. When fishermen found the chest, it was supposedly decorated with a magnificent golden cobra. Today, the treasure hunt unfolds beneath the surrounding waters teeming with vibrant coral gardens and turtles. Tucking into breakfast onboard the boat, we spot one peeking its head above the water and are soon swimming alongside it. The expedition culminates on Mangenguey Island, at a Crusoe-style camp built from the remains of a typhoon-wrecked resort. Other than feasting, the only activities on this island are dancing under the stars and sharing stories by the fire Its white sands feel like a plush carpet and the water is so clear you can see the bottom when your feet no longer touch the ground. Unlike previous basecamps, this one is not short of amenities with beach volleyball, basketball, lounge spaces with hammocks, a fire dancing show and a beach bar serving beer, wine and cocktails. Behind it all is a dry, grassy hill topped with three bamboo towers for the ultimate sundowners. From here, I look for the second star to the right and am reminded of where it all began on Cadlao Island, the 'Neverland of the Philippines'
Times of Oman
08-06-2025
- Times of Oman
Philippines visa-free for Indians: A game-changer for travel in 2025
New Delhi: In a landmark decision that has excited the Indian travel community, the Philippines has officially introduced visa-free travel for Indian passport holders, allowing a stay of up to 14 days. With this relaxed visa policy, the Philippines has become one of the top visa-free countries for Indians to visit. This development means that Indians planning to visit the Philippines without visa applications or embassy visits can now explore its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities with ease. However, for those planning to stay longer or who do not meet the eligibility criteria, the usual Philippines visa information for Indian nationals remains essential. Such travellers need to apply for Philippines visa online (for stays over 14 days) before their trip to ensure smooth entry and legal stay. Explore the Beauty of the Philippines. From the turquoise waters of El Nido to the bustling energy of Manila, the Philippines offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveller. With the ability to travel spontaneously, Indian tourists now have easier access to one of Southeast Asia's most scenic destinations. To make the most of your trip, book cheap flights to Manila and explore the archipelago hassle-free. Whether you're visiting for relaxation, adventure, or cultural discovery, the visa-free Philippines is ready to welcome Indian tourists with open arms. For comfortable stays, choose from a variety of best hotels in Manila that cater to both budget and luxury preferences. If you prefer guided travel, all-inclusive Philippines tour packages are also available for a seamless experience. Philippines Visa Rules for Indians. Under the updated Philippines visa rules for Indians, eligible travellers can enjoy visa-free Philippines travel for up to 14 days. This new initiative, titled "Philippines introduces visa-free travel for Indian passport holders," underscores the country's focus on boosting tourism and fostering stronger ties with India. For those who require a longer stay or do not qualify for visa-free entry, understanding the Philippines visa for Indians remains crucial. Fortunately, Akbar Travels simplifies this process with a seamless online visa application experience. Their services allow Indian travellers to apply for Philippines visa online quickly and conveniently. Other Visa-Free Countries for Indians. The Philippines is not the only nation offering relaxed entry for Indian travellers. A growing list of visa-free countries for Indians includes destinations like Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Indonesia, and Seychelles, among others. These policies continue to increase the global mobility of the Indian passport. Additionally, a valid USA visa opens doors to even more destinations. With a valid US visa, Indian citizens can travel to countries like Dubai, Turkey, Albania, Costa Rica, Mexico, and many others. These countries provide either visa-free access or visa on arrival facility for Indians with a valid US visa or a green card. Dubai Visa on Arrival for Indian Passport Holders. Among the most sought-after destinations accessible with a valid US visa is the UAE. Dubai offers a visa on arrival for Indian citizens holding a valid US visa or green card. This Dubai visa (UAE visa) is valid for 14 days and can be extended once. For longer stays or planned visits, travellers are advised to apply for Dubai visa online . The UAE visa application is 100% online.
Forbes
28-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Retiring In The Philippines? Here's What You Need To Know
Panoramic view of El Nido Bay from Tataw Cliff Americans dreaming about retiring to the Philippines might see palm-fringed beaches and exotic lifestyle changes in their future. But a move to this country is about more than that. Retiring in the Philippines offers Americans a blend of English-speaking convenience, quality private health care at affordable prices, a fairly easy visa process, andS locals that will welcome you into the community and make you feel at home. It's also not all rose-colored. Dealing with local bureaucracy, frustrating infrastructure, and a slower-Cpaced life is not for everyone. If you are thinking about making the Philippines your future home, these are a few things to consider. The Philippines has been a popular retirement destination for Americans for a long time. The Philippine Retirement Authority states that Americans are included in the top nationalities that choose to reside here. Other prominent demographics that commonly reside in the Philippines are Chinese, South Koreans, Taiwanese, and Japanese nationals. According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing in the Philippines, the country has 78,396 foreign citizens. Of those, 39.8% reside in the National Capital Region of the country. The top number of foreign citizens come from China, with 22,494 people, while 6,306 Americans are foreign citizens. That same census states that out of the 108.67 million household population in the Philippines, 230,917 people have foreign ethnicities. Americans account for 6% of that population, or 13,946 people. The Philippines is attractive to foreigners as a tourist and retirement destination due to its incredible natural beauty spread over 7,500 islands, otherworldly landscapes of tropical beaches and crystal-clear waters, vibrant culture, low cost of living, rich history, and diverse experiences for everyone. This country is full of friendly and welcoming people and a strong community, and it has countless activities that many can enjoy. A real incentive to move to the Philippines is that Filipinos are incredibly accommodating with language. They will have no problem explaining slang or choose to speak in simpler phrasing—they will adjust to your level of knowledge. Because English is the official language, it is widely spoken, and communication is not commonly a barrier. Filipino hospitality is also no joke. When you become a familiar face, you will be considered part of the group. If you make an effort to make connections, be prepared to be invited to everyone's birthdays, parties, funerals, and more. Meals here are also communal, so don't be surprised if locals try to feed you even when they just met you. By moving here, you will be able to build a community and a support system if that's what you're looking for. This country also has quality private health care for a fraction of what you would pay in the United States. Many of the doctors in the private health care sector are trained in the U.S. or Australia, while nurses are among the best trained in the world. A checkup with a specialist might only cost about $25. The Philippines definitely has a slower pace of life. This means that bureaucracy can make you crazy, so to live here you'll need to chill lang (just relax). For many coming from a hustle and bustle culture, this could be a welcome change of pace. In the Philippines, no one will rush you, and there's always time to spare. Retiring in the Philippines has many positives… But it also has some downsides… The Philippines has tax treaties with the United States and Canada, which reduces the risk of double taxation. Because of the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and Foreign Tax Credit, American expats usually pay little or no U.S. taxes, especially if you're not planning on earning much abroad. However, you still do need to file your U.S. taxes and report your worldwide income. If you have a foreign bank account with over $10,000, you must file FBAR annually. Income taxes here are moderate, ranging from 0% to 35%. Capital gains tax on the sale of property is fixed at 6% of the sales price. There is no inheritance tax in the Philippines. You can still receive your Social Security benefits while living in the Philippines, as the United States and the Philippines have an agreement, and they can be deposited directly to a Filipino bank account or a U.S. account that you can access from abroad. You'll need to stay in touch with the local U.S. embassy or SSA office in Manila to report you're alive and eligible to receive your SS benefits. I recommend you always work with a tax professional that is familiar with working with retirees relocating abroad. Also, stay up to date with IRS and SSA rules, as they can change at any time. The Philippines offers a retiree-specific resident permit, the Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV), which makes it easy to set up life here. This is a non-immigrant visa that allows multiple entries and indefinite stays in the Philippines. The SRRV offers special benefits like: The Classic SRRV is for active and healthy principal retirees who would use their visa deposit to purchase condominium units or acquire a long-term lease of a house and lot. The deposits are $20,000 for applicants that are 50 years old and above without a pension and $10,000 for applicants that are 50 years old and above with a pension. If you receive a pension, it should be at least $800 per month for single applicants and $1,000 per month for those with dependents. Overall, the Philippines welcomes foreigners. Especially in the rural and island areas, foreigners are treated with respect. Locals are always interested in learning about you and where you come from. It's not uncommon for a foreigner to be offered to be a speaker at a school or event or even get asked to be a local kid's godparent. The country has specific programs to incentivize expats to move to their country, such as the SRRV visa mentioned above, which makes retiring to the Philippines an easy process compared to other countries. The government has also introduced a new digital nomad visa for non-immigrant foreigners who want to stay in the country for a temporary maximum period of one year. Holders may renew the visa for an additional year. Some of the requirements for this new DN visa include being at least 18 years old, showing proof of remote work with digital technology, proof of sufficient income generated outside of the Philippines, and having no criminal record. These are some general considerations to keep in mind when moving to the Philippines… You should always respect the local culture and customs. Make sure to learn about Filipino values, avoid superiority, and be a pleasant neighbor in this country that is welcoming you. It also helps to support the local economy by hiring local workers, buying from local businesses, and engaging with the local community and not just other expats. Follow the local laws, stay in the country with the correct visa, and pay the taxes that apply to you. Also, volunteering and contributing to local programs and sharing your skills and experience in ways that would benefit your new community are great ways to give back and positively affect those around you. While the Philippines might not be for everyone, it is still an exciting option for many. Retirees who are budget conscious because of a modest pension or fixed income will find the Philippines hugely attractive. You could live comfortably in many cities with a budget of about $1,500 to $1,800 per month for a couple. If you don't wish to learn how to speak another language, the Philippines is also a great option, as English is widely spoken and it will be easy to navigate daily life and form new relationships. The Filipino culture is social and family-oriented. If you're looking to be well-received among a community that is warm, welcoming, and respectful, the Philippines meets the bill. Remember that even though English is spoken by most, the culture is still different from what you might be used to. Everyday life is different—from the infrastructure to bureaucracy to daily goings. If you are someone who can embrace differences, can adapt to new environments, and is open-minded, you will be able to thrive in the Philippines. Finally, those who are looking for beach living, a rural and slower pace of life, and peaceful, natural beauty will be amazed by the Philippines.
