Rachel Gleave, our Asia product manager, and Bethany Preston from our sales team have just returned from a trip to the Philippines, immersing themselves in the destination and discovering new hotels. Their stay focused on four main destinations: Siargao, Bohol, Palawan (El Nido), and Boracay. Read our other blog to find out more about Siargao and Palawan.
Bohol
A short ferry ride from Cebu, or a flight from Manila, El Nido, or Boracay, Bohol is a great choice for adventure and nature lovers. Beyond its idyllic beaches, you’ll discover a stunning natural landscape, with jungle-clad mountains, waterfalls, and charming local villages. At its heart are the famous Chocolate Hills—unique mounds that, in the dry season, turn brown and resemble Hershey’s Kisses. Bohol is also home to some of the smallest primates in the world: Tarsiers, tiny creatures about the size of a squirrel, with large, expressive eyes.
Take a river cruise to observe local life along the banks, visit rice paddies, or walk among the Chocolate Hills. For those seeking more adventure, an ATV tour through the unique terrain or a thrilling zip line ride through the trees awaits. Bohol is also renowned for its incredible diving and snorkelling around its nearby islands.
Stay on Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by a bridge, where you’ll find pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, and lively nightlife at Alona Beach, lined with local bars and restaurants right on the sand. Amorita, perched at the end of the beach, offers contemporary rooms and pool villas, perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and nightlife. Further along the beach Bohol Beach Club has idyllic palm fringed beach vibes with comfortable accommodation, ideal as a base for a few nights when exploring the island. Amarela offers a more intimate style with authentic artworks and antiques from across the country creating a more traditional retreat.
Boracay
Probably one of the best-known islands in the Philippines, Boracay is just seven kilometres long, with a stunning four-kilometre stretch of powder-soft white sand that looks like a picture postcard. If you love basking in the sun by day and enjoying lively bars and restaurants by night, this is the place for you. The crystal-clear waters make it ideal for diving and snorkelling, and while it’s the most developed of the islands, Boracay hasn’t lost its local charm.
The Lind boasts a prime location at the quieter end of the beach, offering a sophisticated retreat with a private stretch of sand, serene views from the rooftop pool, and contemporary rooms, all with private balconies. It’s also just a short walk to the boutiques, cafes, and restaurants of nearby Station Two and D’Mall.
Separate from Boracay’s main beach (but still only a 15-minute shuttle to town), the Shangri-La Boracay is an entirely different experience. Spread across two beautiful beaches, one private to the resort, it offers a picture-perfect setting, stylish design, and outstanding food and beverage options. This resort ticks all the boxes for the perfect escape. Families will love the kids’ zone and adventure centre, while the sublime spa and serene swimming pools are beautifully landscaped. The spacious rooms are a stylish, and we highly recommend the Loft Villa for magnificent ocean views, ultimate privacy, and your very own private pool.
We’d love to share our experiences with you and help craft your perfect holiday to the Philippines. Get in touch with one of our experienced team and let us take the stress out of the planning.
