Cover Aerial view of Snake island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. (Photo: GettyImages)
Aerial view of Snake island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. (Photo: GettyImages)
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Near or far, the Philippines has plenty of summer destinations for you to explore
March is here, and we’re starting to feel the heat of summer. What better way to relax than to lounge by the beach with a cocktail and your favourite book? Or maybe you prefer to dive deep and be one with nature as you swim with sharks. Perhaps you'd like to broaden your horizons by trying out new activities that get your heart racing. Maybe you hate the heat and would rather avoid it by going somewhere much colder. Whatever you want to do for the summer, Tatler has something in store for you.
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Puerto Galera
Above Sea, blue sky, palms and boats in White beach, Puerto Galera, Philippines. Popular tourist and diving spot. (Photo: GettyImages)
Sea, blue sky, palms and boats in White beach, Puerto Galera, Philippines. Popular tourist and diving spot. (Photo: GettyImages)
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Known for its white sands and dive sites, Puerto Galera has everything a tropical wanderer could ever dream of. From world-class diving sites to breathtaking beaches and luxurious hotels, what more can you ask for? If you’re looking for a historical trip, you can explore many shipwrecks, indigenous people’s villages, and even a replica of a sunken galleon ship.
Palawan
Above Coral Reefs of Palawan (Photo: GettyImages)
Coral Reefs of Palawan (Photo: GettyImages)
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Palawan offers many destinations for every traveller. If you want natural views untouched by humans, Puerto Princesa is a great place to start. As the Philippines’ eco-tourism capital, the local government has implemented many efforts to integrate amenities with the environment. If you love the hustle and bustle of the city against the backdrop of a tropical wonderland, El Nido boasts many world-class hotels with white beaches and crystal-clear waters. Those who love exploration and the ocean can head to Coron. Many island-hopping activities and snorkelling sites can be found here, allowing you to experience the island’s marine fauna and flora up close.
Davao
Above Whitewater Rafting in Davao (Photo: Klook)
Whitewater Rafting in Davao (Photo: Klook)
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While many would think Davao is a second Metro Manila due to heavy urbanisation, there are still plenty of outdoor destinations for you to see. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, whitewater rafting is sure to get your blood running. You’ll have 13 kilometres of rapids to go through, so this is not for the faint of heart. Experience other extreme activities here, such as wakeboarding, spelunking, and hiking Mount Apo.
More from Tatler: 7 must-visit diving sites in the Philippines for the summer
Baler
Above Balete Tree (Millenium Tree), a tourist spot near Baler. In Maria Aurora, Aurora, Philippines (Photo: GettyImages)
Balete Tree (Millenium Tree), a tourist spot near Baler. In Maria Aurora, Aurora, Philippines (Photo: GettyImages)
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Home to the annual International Aurora Surfing Cup, Baler attracts surfers across the globe with its massive crashing waves. If you’re not too keen on riding waves—or making them as you wipe out—go on a trek and visit the giant 600-year-old Balete tree in the forest. There are also a number of waterfalls to see, with freezing waters to complement the summer heat.
Malapascua Island
Above Thresher shark swims over coral reef at malapascua island Philippines (Photo: GettyImages)
Thresher shark swims over coral reef at malapascua island Philippines (Photo: GettyImages)
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Did you ever want to swim with thresher sharks? Malapascua Island is the place to do it. This remote destination is the only place in the world where divers and beachgoers can encounter thresher sharks all year round. But that’s not all there is to the island; giant Pelagic Mantas, Devil Rays, White Tip Reef Sharks, and Grey Reef Sharks are also often spotted here, making it a hub of biodiversity.
Sagada
Above Philippinos in the mountain region of Sagada used to hang coffins with their dead down a cliff as a burial tradition in Echo Valley, Sagada, Northern Luzon, Philippines (Photo: GettyImages)
Philippinos in the mountain region of Sagada used to hang coffins with their dead down a cliff as a burial tradition in Echo Valley, Sagada, Northern Luzon, Philippines (Photo: GettyImages)
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Summertime is usually reserved for beaches and water activities, but another way to enjoy the sunny weather is to avoid its scorching heat entirely by heading up the mountain. Situated 1,472 meters above sea level and over 400 kilometres away from Manila, this is the perfect place to escape and get some quiet. Here you can see scenic mountain valleys, beautiful rice fields, limestone caves, and historical 2,000-year-old hanging coffins by the Kankanaey people.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
