Wazzup Pilipinas?!
The Philippines is an archipelagic state that comprises 7640 islands on the west Pacific Ocean. This Southeast Asian country is geographically classified into three broad divisions, namely Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Manila is the capital of this country while Baguio is known as its summer capital. Tourists love to visit several islands of the Philippines, which are very popular for scenic beauty, comfortable weather, wildlife, and friendly environment. They may book flights of Emirates Airlines to land at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.
Most popular islands in the Philippines
Palawan – It is the largest island in the Palawan province of the Philippines. Geographically, it is located between South China Sea and Sulu Sea. Tourists find its pristine sandy beaches, mountains, hilly forests, and wildlife very attractive. Thus, Palawan was declared as the ‘most beautiful island in the world’ by some reputed travel magazines in 2016. Mount Mantalingajan is the highest peak in the mountain range covering the entire length of this island. The flora and fauna of Palawan is similar to that found in Borneo, Java, or Sumatra since this island biogeographically belongs to Sundaland region of Southeast Asia.
EL Nido – It is a densely-populated municipality area in Palawan province in the Philippines. This place is famous for white sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, ancient caves, waterfalls, and mangrove forests. It is rated among the best beaches of the world by some travel magazines and online platforms. Bacuit Bay has several diving spots from where people can expect a view of coral reefs, turtles, different kinds of fishes, and other members of marine life. Seven Commandos Beach is a camping site with cottages and tents. Many small islands comprise El Nido, among which Cadlao Island, Simizu Island, Vigan Island, Dilumacad Island, Matinloc Island, and Pinasil Island are the popular ones for their white beaches.
Luzon – It is the largest island of the Philippines, which is known as the 15th largest island in the world. It houses the capital city Manila and thus, it is the seat of politics and administration in this country. There are many small islands around the mainland of Luzon where tourists flock to enjoy serene scenic beauty. Cordillera Central Mountain range, Sierra Madre range, and Caraballo Mountains comprise major parts of Northern Luzon. Central Luzon is the flat plain containing the natural port of Manila Bay, long coastline, and vast agricultural lands. South Luzon houses the prominent urban areas, Taal Lake, Laguna Lake, and some mountain peaks.
Boracay – This is a resort island in the western part of the Visayas region in the Philippines. This island was renovated in 2018 and reopened for tourists with many added features. It is popular for the White Beach, coral reefs, hills, and the Amihan season dominated by trade winds. Tourists enjoy scuba diving, kitesurfing, diving helmet, snorkeling, parasailing, and windsurfing along this beach where the water is protected by the reefs. They can also opt for horse riding or play golf in a large golf course. There are restaurants, pubs, bars, nightclubs, and luxury 5-star resorts on this island.
Siargao – This small island of 437 sq. Km has the unique shape of a tear-drop and it is located in the Philippines Sea. The coastline of this island has beaches covered with white sand, coral reefs, and several small peninsular points. It is named after a type of mangrove tree that is widely available on this island. A major part of Siargao is covered with mangrove forests and wetlands. There are many other islands located off shore of Siargao, which are included in tour itineraries by travel agencies.
Cebu – This large island is called the Queen City of the South, as it is the oldest city and was the capital of this country earlier. It is surrounded by 167 small islands and islets. It is the capital of Cebu province in the Philippines and famous for its metropolitan facilities. It has mountains stretching over an area of 1000 meters. Several towns, like Bogo, Medellin, San Remigio, and Daanbantayan, are located on the northern part of this island. Tourists visit here for ring-shaped coral reefs, beaches, and fishing points along the sea water.
Dumaguete – This city is the capital of Negros Oriental province and it is the most populous city in the Philippines. It is called a university town due to the presence of 4 universities and several colleges here. Apart from students, it is also a destination for tourists who visit here to have a view of Rizal Boulevard containing many ancient houses and sugar mansions. St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral is the oldest stone church of this region. They also visit the National Museum and City Hall while relaxing in the Baywalk area.
Therefore, tourists flock to these islands of the Philippines where they can enjoy their vacations with various activities.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
