Philippine beaches. Philippines, resorts: review of the best, descriptions, recommendations for vacationers and reviews. The best resorts in the world

Philippines - islands in Pacific Ocean located in Southeast Asia. There are more than seven thousand of them in the archipelago, and they are distinguished by picturesque lagoons, volcanoes, mysterious bays, and beaches strewn with white sand. Amazing animals live among beautiful plants in the jungle. This is where travelers from all over the world come, not only young people and traditional couples, but also divers and eco-tourists. Why are the beaches in the Philippines so attractive to them?

The best resorts in the world

Republic of the Philippines - former spanish colony V South-East Asia. The country is visited annually by more than a million tourists, who bring the state revenue of about $1.7 billion annually. The name "Philippines" comes from the name of Philip II, the king of Spain who conquered the country in 1521.

In the archipelago, each resort is special, all the beaches are different from each other, this is one of the few places where vacation on a desert island is available to the general public. A virgin beach awaits those who wish. untouched nature, they are given the opportunity to be Robinson Crusoe for one day or two, or even a whole week. However, the most fashionable beach resorts in the Philippines are located in the south of this archipelago.

For example, those who want to enjoy the Boracay resort rush to Panay Island. Any website that talks about the Philippines places photos of Boracay beaches on the front pages, since it is officially included in the top 10 most unsurpassed beaches in the world. The island is small - only seven kilometers long and a kilometer wide, but it is as beautiful as a tropical butterfly. The clear South China Sea is bright turquoise, the soft and white sand attracts tourists, and here is the most fashionable summer center of the night club scene. Young people have a lot of fun around the clock at one of the best resorts in the world. However, here you can lie on the white sand, ride a catamaran, dance the night away at a beach party - Boracay is a great place for all these activities.

The best beaches in the Philippines, officially recognized as the cleanest in the world, are located on the island of Cebu. Vacationers are attracted by a huge number of exotic fruits and bright, picturesque vegetation. Tourists bring home coconut souvenirs, semi-precious stone jewelry and even ukuleles. Holidays in this place are available all year round, and those who do not want to lie all day long on the dazzling white sand and admire the turquoise sea choose diving or windsurfing, sea fishing, and yachting.

Those who prefer silence and want to enjoy exotic nature, but not in isolation from the achievements of civilization, choose Bantayan Beach in Cebu. You can't hear loud laughter or disco music here, only the sound of waves and the rustle of the wind.

Vacationers claim that best beaches in the Philippines are located in Palawan, they are surrounded by mangrove forests, rocks and jungles, caves. Diving enthusiasts from all over the world are attracted by the world's largest number of ships that have sunk throughout the history of navigation, and an underground river runs off the western coast of this archipelago, which is one of the longest in the world.

Warm all year round

The most best time for a trip to the Philippines - this is December, February, March and May. But it is worth noting that the traditional season time may change. On different islands it varies and depends on the activity of cyclones. The Philippine archipelago has stable weather, the humid, warm climate is not unpredictability, and even when the rainy season begins, there are significant breaks in the downpours. After heavy rain, clear days return again, and tourists rush to the beach, climb the mountains, sightsee, and admire nature.

But still, it is preferable to visit the beaches of the Philippines in spring or early autumn; it is at this time that dry and warm weeks reign throughout almost the entire archipelago. In January, around Christmas, the days are especially good: the ocean is calm, and the sun is soft and warm.

It is worth noting that tsunamis and typhoons can rage in the Philippines; the most dangerous months are July, August, September and October. Favorable times for holidays in these parts are also the end of April and the beginning of May; the typhoon and rainy season will begin only at the end of the month and will last until November. True, recently the pronounced seasonality of the climate has somewhat faded.

Vacationers called the holiday season at the end of April “Golden Week”, but the golden days fly by quickly, and in mid-May it can start to rain. Although the daytime temperature during the holiday season warms up to 28 degrees, such heat is very easily tolerated, since the air is filled with breezes from the sea, it is always fresh. In numerous waterfalls, the water flows warm up to 26 degrees.

In December, the Philippine beaches are also not deserted, although the sky sometimes frowns White sand High waves roll in, but the bad weather in these places does not last long: within an hour the sun is already shining.

Transparent sea and white sand

However, not only favorable weather made the beaches of the Philippines a famous resort with a worldwide reputation. Air, fresh and clean, nature incomparable in its beauty, low prices, decent service - all this is positively assessed by numerous vacationers. But the most important thing is the beaches. The coastline of the archipelago is many kilometers long, and literally each of the beaches is unique in its own way and has its own flavor.

In the pristine sea of ​​bright turquoise color live several dozen various types corals It is in this region that the famous blue corals are found, which are inhabited by fish of all colors of the rainbow. The seas that wash the islands of the archipelago are constantly refreshed by currents, they come from Japan, India and Southern China.

It is for this reason that there is such a huge diversity near the archipelago sea ​​corals, as well as sponges and shells.

We have already mentioned the famous white coral sand, which can only be found where corals grow, since its structure is their crushed fragments. The beach strewn with this sand amazes the imagination of anyone who stays in this amazing corner of the earth. Silky to the touch, it looks like flour, but the most amazing thing is that coral sand does not heat up at all under the rays of the scorching sun. In the Philippines, the best beaches with such sand are, for example, “White Beach” on Boracay, which is a strip four kilometers long.

Also on the island of Santa Cruz, in the city of Zamboanga, there is a sandy pink beach, which is also amazingly beautiful; it also owes its exotic color to the corals that are located here. For millions of years, the process of grinding red coral into the finest powder with simple white sand took place. Although there are no hotels or restaurants on the island, lovers of ecological recreation take food and everything they need with them and visit the amazing beach, because there are only three such places in the world.

By the way, not all beaches in the Philippines consist of coral sand. Mabua Pebble Beach is located about thirty minutes from Surigao City in Mindanao. The kilometer-long coast consists entirely of stones of different sizes - those that lie close to the water are smaller, and the further from the sea, the larger they are.

Valugan Boulder Beach, a short bike ride from Basco, is also known for its exotic, smooth rocks. Unlike most beaches, the pebbles on Valugan are huge and almost equal in size. It is believed that these stones volcanic origin, the waves polished the stones, making them flawlessly smooth.

Best diving and surfing

The Philippines not only has the best beaches, but also the leading diving destination in the world. This is where you can enjoy the view of coral reefs, see large sea ​​creatures, rivers and islands under water, beautiful lagoons. In the sea near the archipelago there are five hundred varieties of different corals, more than two thousand species of fish, sea turtles, whales and dolphins. The famous Tubbataha Reef, which is located in Sulu, is included in the lists World Heritage UNESCO.

The total area of ​​all reefs in shallow water in these places is almost forty thousand square kilometers, and the huge number of once sunken warships impresses all divers without exception. Almost each of the existing islands here has its own, and very worthy, dive structure. But the most developed diving structure is located in Manila, namely on the island of Mindoro. It is there that the famous park called “Puerto Galera” is located. Excellent diving on the island of Palawan.

Those who like to relax actively, as a rule, also love surfing; the wave on the island of Siargao is especially famous among these fans. Beaches in the Philippines, such as Puraran on the island of Catanduanes, are prime surfing areas. In Boracay, fans also find decent waves, and in January every year they hold competitions for the International Funboard Cup.

But, as they write on their pages social networks amateurs and pros, the most magnificent place for surfers around the world is the island of Shiragao, which is located northeast of Mindanao. This place is not suitable for beginners and amateurs, as sharp rocks and reefs are scattered everywhere, but this is not a hindrance for fans, since the wind necessary for this sport blows here all year round, especially in October. It is in the fall that traditional World Cup competitions are held there. For this reason, an airport was even built on the island.

To be fair, active recreation in the Philippines is not limited to this: tourists climb peaks, dive into caves, take long hikes, ride bicycles, and play golf.

Amazing sights

Having thoroughly enjoyed the sun and sea on the best beaches in the Philippines, tourists go sightseeing. Since there are quite a lot of volcanoes on the islands of the archipelago, some of which are still active today, the guides try to surprise vacationers with this spectacle. In this regard, Mayon is especially worthy of attention, since he is not only the most beautiful, but also the most unpredictable, giant mountain there are traces of fifty violent eruptions. The clouds of smoke rising to the sky amaze the imagination.

The Puerto Princesa River is also famous, which flows entirely underground through a dark and huge cave on the island of Palawan. The cave complex is surrounded by tropical forest, and is a truly unique place for adventure lovers. The capital of the state, Manila, is also worth visiting; in addition to the traditional set of museums, tourists are offered to visit a villa called “Escudero”, where all arrivals are fed exotic dishes right in the waterfall, inside of which there is a restaurant.

You should definitely see the so-called Chocolate Hills; they usually remind tourists of the computer game “Super Mario Land”. Absolutely perfect, thickly grassy hills are scattered throughout a giant forest. There are more than 1200 hills in total, the ideal shape of a regular cone has a large slope angle, and although they are made of limestone, traditional karst caves are missing from them. The hills are located over an area of ​​fifty square kilometers. A unique natural phenomenon is located on the island of Bohol, near the town of Carmen. This island is also famous for the fact that funny miniature monkeys, tarsiers, live on its territory.

One of the most famous tourist attractions is rice terraces in Luzon, they are even often called the “eighth wonder of the world.” The terraces are located approximately 1500 meters above sea level, are very spectacular, covering a total area of ​​more than ten square kilometers.

If the presence of a unique type of healing in the country can be considered a landmark, then it is in the Philippines that there are healers who heal by laying on of hands, performing operations without traditional surgeon’s instruments. Their fame is so widespread that some tourists come not to enjoy the beauty of nature and the best beaches in the Philippines, but solely for the sake of treatment.

The archipelago of 7,107 large and small islands is amazingly diverse and fabulously beautiful. Filipinos are one of the most hospitable people in the world, a magnificent climate, exotic nature, unusual animals, luxurious white beaches lure more and more people to the Philippines. large quantity vacationers.

The Philippines is a unique state scattered across seven thousand islands, and this is not an exaggeration. The state actually includes 7,107 different landmasses spread across the Pacific Ocean. Despite this, the best and most interesting resorts are located on just a few islands.

Tourist paradise - Philippines

Resorts, the descriptions of which are so diverse that they can satisfy any tourist, offer luxurious service, exotic culture, magnificent nature, snow-white beaches, and modern metropolises that are not inferior to those in Hong Kong. Add here the hot climate and amazing diving opportunities, and it becomes clear that tourism potential The Philippines is much higher than any country in Southeast Asia.

The Philippines will delight any tourist - for families and those who love passive relaxation, calm islands with comfortable hotels and clean beaches are suitable. Young people better pay attention to popular resorts Philippines, where there are many bars, beach parties and a large number of dive sets. You can also buy combined tour with a visit to several islands. Therefore, when choosing a resort, you need to carefully study its specifics.

on Boracay island

Boracay is an island with amazingly beautiful beaches. For example, White Beach is one of the hundred most beautiful beaches in the world due to its snow-white sand, coconut palms and the absence of ocean waves.

In the evening, there are many bars and restaurants on the embankment, which will not let the sun-baked tourist get bored. There are also numerous souvenir shops here. Middle-class hotels are located near the embankment, and the most fashionable hotels are located in separate lagoons, with their own beaches and access to the ocean.

However, this is not at all big Island, stretching 7 kilometers long and only 1 kilometer wide. Therefore, those who like to explore new places and far from hiking trails The corners on the island will quickly become boring. All its attractions are beaches and unique corals that can be viewed underwater.

Cebu - the center of cultural life

Those who are not satisfied with just beaches and want to immerse themselves in the culture of the Philippines need to choose resorts more carefully. Such travelers should go to This is where Magellan set foot when he discovered the Philippines, whose resorts are so attractive today. It was in Cebu that people converted to Christianity local tribes, Cebu is the flagship of the entire Philippine economy and it is here that you can feel the spirit of the country, in which two cultures are mixed - the indigenous people and the European colonialists.

Adds popularity to the island and major airport, which takes international flights. You can fly directly to Cebu from Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo or Seoul.

Among the island's attractions are monuments to Magellan and the leader of the Lupa Lupa tribe, who repulsed the conquerors. You can also see the cross that Magellan stuck into the ground of the island, marking the beginning of the spread of Catholicism. The San Pedro fortress, built by the Spaniards in the 16th century, is also interesting from a historical point of view.

From natural wonders- Kawasan Falls, located on an island neighboring Cebu. This large three-stage waterfall, surrounded by picturesque jungle, is a true miracle of nature.

Bohol, an island with great potential

Resorts on the island of Bohol are attractive for tourists coming to the Philippines. Tourism here is not yet as developed as in Boracay or Cebu, but the island is so interesting that it will soon be able to compete with them. Therefore, if you don’t like crowds of tourists and super popular resorts, this is the place for you.

Of interest to tourists are local natural attractions, which are called These are unique round-shaped hills, similar to each other as two peas in a pod. There are more than a thousand of them in total, and the grass that has burned out on the slopes gives them a brown (chocolate) color, contrasting with the rest of the nature of the island. Interestingly, scientists still do not know how these hills were formed.

Here, in Bohol, lives a unique local animal - this is a monkey with bulging eyes, the smallest among primates. See her in wildlife difficult, but taking photographs in a local nature reserve is easy.

The neighboring small islands are a paradise for divers. All conditions for comfortable diving have been created here, and the island of Balicasag awaits extreme sports enthusiasts - when diving here, you can meet a dangerous hammerhead shark.

Luxurious holiday on the island of Palawan

If we briefly characterize the Palawan resort, we can say that this is a high-quality, expensive and secluded vacation for lovers good diving. Without a doubt, Palawan is one of the best resorts in the Philippines.

The resorts in Palawan are also famous for their unique property - El Nido. This is a nature reserve consisting of many small islands. Some of them house expensive eco-hotels with gorgeous beaches and amazing nature. Here you can meet rare representatives of local flora and fauna.

Here, in Palawan, there is also a national park - a picturesque jungle, in the center of which there is a network of caves connected. Here you can meet the rarest more than 1000 species of birds, ride a canoe and go diving or snorkeling in one of the best dive sets in the world.

Mindoro, mecca of divers

The island of Mindoro has gained popularity and fame as the best resort in the Philippines due to its close location to the country's capital Manila, the largest dive center, as well as due to its mountains and eco-villages.

The north of the island is a mecca for divers. This is the Puerto Galera underwater park, where there are many dive sets for both beginners and advanced divers. There are places where you can dive directly from the shore, and there are places where you first need to arrive by boat. The Apo Reef Park is also interesting for diving, where you can find moray eels, stingrays, reef sharks, barracuda and other underwater life that the Philippines is rich in.

Resorts, reviews of which are always positive, boast not only inhabitants of the depths. Mindoro's success with divers was also ensured by a sunken merchant ship carrying Chinese porcelain. Diving to it is especially interesting.

In addition to diving, in Mindoro you can climb the 3-kilometer-high Mount Alcon, watch cockfights, or visit strip bars that are rare in the country.

The Philippines is a very colorful country, still little explored Russian tourists, but this is a great reason to study it yourself.

The Philippines is considered one of the most popular destinations Southeast Asia, they include more than 7 thousand islands in their territory. Six best beaches in the Philippine Islands for quality and unforgettable holiday recommended by the local tourism department.

1. Pagudpud Beach

2. Beaches of Mactan Island

3. Beaches of Panglao Island

4. Beaches of Camiguin Island

5. El Nido Beach

6. Pearl Farm, Davao

In addition to beaches, the Philippine Islands are famous for natural reserves, emerald rice fields, and “chocolate hills.” There are excellent conditions for ecotourism and active rest, for example, diving, parasailing, kiteboarding. Philippine cuisine is a unique blend of Eastern and Western cuisines: Malay, Spanish and Chinese.

The paradise islands beckon especially strongly when it gets darker outside the window and the thermometer drops lower and lower. When choosing a vacation spot where you can escape the winter, bad weather and enjoy the sun for a while, many look to Thailand, Vietnam or Bali. The Philippines remains a less-than-explored destination, so today we offer an overview of the Philippine islands - with prices and entertainment.

We went to the Philippines with a transfer through Hong Kong, stopping in the city for a day on the way there and back, thus still insuring ourselves against problems if the connecting flight was suddenly late, which is not uncommon in Asia. Therefore, we had 2 half days to explore Hong Kong.

The easiest way to get to the city is by Aeroexpress, which will take you straight to the center in 30 minutes and 100 Hong Kong dollars (about $13). Tickets are sold in special machines. But if you are traveling with a group, it is more profitable to buy tickets at the box office. A ticket for three will cost HK$210, and for four – HK$250.

Very beautiful view opens to Hong Kong from Victoria Peak. You can also visit here shopping mall and sit in one of the cafes overlooking the city. Victoria Peak can be reached by taxi or funicular.

Hong Kong ranks first in the world in terms of the number of skyscrapers. After admiring them from above from Victoria Peak, we go for a walk along the embankment of the business center.

In the Central Plaza building, the third tallest in Hong Kong, you can climb to the 49th floor completely free of charge and see the panorama of the city.

Every day at 8 pm from the Tsim Sha Tsui embankment of Kulun Island you can see the world's largest Laser show, which is located on the skyscrapers of the business center of Hong Kong. The easiest way to get from Hong Kong to Kulun is by small ferry.

We decide to devote our second day in Hong Kong to an amusement park. We choose Ocean park, mainly to see a live panda. The park includes a large oceanarium, a dolphinarium with performances several times a day, rooms with pandas, an arctic zone where you can see penguins, walruses and fur seals, as well as various attractions, an underground train and cable car. There are attractions for both very young and adults, but most are still designed for children aged six and older. The park is huge! We got to the park at one o'clock in the afternoon - and it was not possible to see all the attractions and pavilions before closing.

We managed to see only one panda, and she was snoring sweetly, immersed in sleep and indifferently turning away from the visitors. But the penguins delighted the audience - especially children - by amusingly darting in flocks in the water in one direction or the other!

But on the rides, an interesting detail emerged. The Chinese, unlike Europeans and Americans, restrain their emotions. So on the steepest “yellow” roller coaster with three loops, installed at the top of the mountain, I was practically the only one screaming.

Philippines. Boracay Island

Boracay Island is considered the best island for a beach holiday in the Philippines. You need to fly to it through Panay Island - from Hong Kong with a transfer either in Clark or in Manila. Panay has two airports in the cities of Kalibo and Caticlan. Small boats go to Boracay Island from Caticlan. If you decide to fly through Kalibo, you can get from Kalibo to Caticlan in an hour by taxi for 1,300 Philippine pesos (about $30).

It is most profitable to rent housing on the spot. The price of rooms starts from 500 pesos per day (about $11), and for 2000 pesos (about $44) you can rent a suite in a cozy mini-hotel on the first line.

It is not for nothing that White Beach is one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world. Snow-white sand, coconut trees, crystal clear azure ocean. There are no ocean waves here. The water temperature is about 28-30 degrees.

And what amazing sunsets here!

Everywhere on the shore there are small restaurants serving dishes from different cuisines of the world and SPA salons. A full lunch or dinner with freshly squeezed juices (without alcohol) will cost about $5-10. The average cost of an hour-long full body massage is about $11.

After sunset it starts night life: bars, discos, karaoke, various shows.

For 2000 pesos (about $44) you can rent a boat for a boat trip around the island. The trip usually includes snorkeling and visiting the island's beaches. From Ilig-Iligan Beach you can walk to the caves where flying foxes live. We were unable to get into the cave: the road to it is on private property and was closed that day. But we still looked at the flying foxes: right from the boat we could see a large colony that had settled on several trees.

If you are traveling with a small child, be sure to visit the small zoo near the first station on White Beach. There are very few inhabitants of the zoo, but most of the animals, birds and insects can be picked up and photographed with them. The ticket costs 150 pesos (about $3.5).

Bohol and Panglau Islands

Further from Caticlan our path lies to the island of Bohol. We get to it through the island of Cebu, the flight to which takes about 50 minutes. Large speed boats run from Cebu to Bohol every two hours. Local residents speak virtually no English. Having taken a taxi at the airport, we discovered that the driver also did not know the rules traffic, does not understand pantomime and is poorly versed in the drawings where we depicted the sea, the boat and the name of the island of Bohol. During the trip we looked Trading port, listened as our taxi driver talked about something for about five minutes with local residents and, desperate to get to our destination, we asked the driver to stop with a policeman who knew English at a basic level, and most importantly, knew where the pier was located from where our ship departed. Despite the long car ride, the taxi cost us only 200 pesos (about $4.5). To buy a ticket for the ship, we had to look for a ticket office, which was located about a kilometer from the pier. Later it turned out that a bus runs from the pier to the ticket office.

In the port of Bohol island, at the counters of small travel agencies you can not only order a taxi, but also arrange excursions and choose a hotel. Moreover, if you don’t like the hotel, the driver will offer other options. The most beautiful beaches are on Panglau Island, which is connected by a bridge to Bohol.

In Panglau we were offered a hotel on Bolod beach. The cost of rooms for two with breakfast is from 1600 pesos per day. We looked at 5 hotels on this beach and chose Dumaluan Beach Resort with the most beautiful beach and the largest and most beautiful territory. The standard rooms, as it turned out not immediately, do not have hot water, so we eventually moved to a luxury room, costing 2150 pesos, which, unlike standard number, except hot water, also amazed the imagination with TV.

The hotel does not have its own SPA salon, but for 500 pesos you can order an hour-long oil body massage right in your room.

The hotel restaurant overlooking the beach plays live music almost all the time. In the morning (even at 5 am, when we got up for the excursion!) and in the afternoon, a blind musician played very romantic melodies on the piano. The cost of lunch or dinner is approximately $5-10.

Bolod - very beautiful beach, white sand and palm trees. In the ocean, about fifty meters from the shore, algae, sea urchins, stars and other living creatures begin to appear. The sea is not deep at all. The beach is ideal for families with small children. The greatest depth that can be reached on the sand is approximately waist-deep. The downside is that there is a strong low tide on the beach - it’s uncomfortable to swim in knee-deep water, and it’s difficult to walk further - so it’s best to swim at low tide only with a mask. For lovers of snorkeling, this is a haven! At arm's length you can see several species of starfish, urchins of various sizes and colors. The most big hedgehogs the size of a soccer ball. It is very interesting to watch how they move very quickly along the sandy bottom about their hedgehog business. We managed to see several small moray eels, strange-looking fish and even a lionfish.

The distance of the beach from local villages and resort towns sets the mood for complete relaxation.

In the morning, for 2,000 pesos, you can rent a boat to a nearby small island where dolphins swim. This island also has a very beautiful coral reef where you can snorkel.

After the beach and snorkeling, we went to explore the island. We agreed on a trip to the chocolate hills and to the tarsiers (or, as they are also called, tarsiers) back in the port with the same company that took us to the hotel. Renting a car cost 2,000 pesos.

Tarsiers (tarsiers) are cute funny creatures, somewhat similar to little gremlins. There are only about 200 tarsiers left in the world. We saw seven of them:) Tarsiers are nocturnal animals. During the day, they are tightly glued to a branch on a tree on which a roof of leaves is built. Each tarsier is assigned a nursery attendant who is ready to take a photo of you against the backdrop of the tarsier’s bulging eye in surprise. Entrance to the nursery costs 60 pesos.

The Chocolate Hills are an amazing geological formation - more than 1,200 hills of an unusual conical shape. The hills are shaped like truffle candies, and they acquire a chocolate color during the dry season, when the grass turns brown. Scientists do not have a single version about the origin of the hills. They came up with two for tourists. According to one legend, the hills appeared after a battle between two giants: they threw stones and sand at each other for many days, which eventually turned into hills. According to another version, the young giant Arogo fell in love with a mortal girl named Aloya, who did not want to marry him. After her death, Arogo was depressed and cried for a long time, and the tears rolling from his eyes turned into hills.

Cebu Island

On the island of Cebu we stop for a couple of nights for a trip to the whale sharks!

You can swim with sharks near the town of Oslob. Get here for 150 pesos per regular bus air-conditioned, which takes just over two hours to travel from Cebu.

Swimming with sharks lasts 30 minutes and costs 1,000 pesos (about $22) per person. This price includes boat rental, masks, snorkels and life jacket, which is required. You can rent an underwater camera for 500 pesos.

There are several rules for swimming with whale sharks: do not swim in front of the bow, do not touch the shark, do not swim from the side or behind closer than 4 meters, do not use sunscreen. At the same time, no one instructs the sharks and they are allowed to swim up and touch you :) Unforgettable impression, when a huge head with a meter-long mouth, which could easily fit several people like me, turns out to be 20-30 cm!

The Philippines offers magnificent beaches, exotic nature and a comfortable holiday.
One of the main advantages of the Philippines is its people. They are incredibly kind and hospitable. Filipinos are famous not only for their perfect pitch, and every second person plays musical instruments amazingly, but they also have a great sense of humor. Their smiles and interest in the guests of the country are so sincere that you never cease to be amazed at their sensitivity and cordiality. In addition, the Philippines is a state in which the main religion is Christianity, the population is devout, but there are no strict prohibitions. About how to plan solo trip to the Philippines Find out which islands to choose for your holiday and how to get to them in this article.

VISA

Visa to the Philippines. Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit the Philippines.

When is the best time to go to the Philippines?

Best time to travel to the Philippines - from the first days of November to the beginning of May. Local summer - the taginit season lasts from March to the end of May. Taginite is considered the hottest time of the year in the Philippines. In May, the southwest monsoon "habakat" comes to the islands, which brings with it humid weather, and from June to November the "tagulan" - the rainy season - begins. In November, the monsoons give way to dry “amihan” winds. Starting from this month, the “cool” month is counting down winter days"tag-lamig" season. For those who have a hard time withstanding a hot, humid climate, the ideal time for a holiday in the Philippines comes when the weather is beautiful throughout almost the entire archipelago. The Philippine winter will last exactly until the beginning of March, then the heat will intensify.

How to get to the Philippines

There are no direct flights to the Philippines from Russia. Flights from Russia are carried out by companies Etihad(connection in Abu Dhabi), Emirates(Dubai) and Fly Duba i (direct flight to Dubai from Samara, Ufa and Kazan), Cathay Pacific(via Hong Kong) Singapore Airlines(via Singapore), Qatar Airways(Doha). The main airport receiving international flights is located on the island of Luzon– the largest island in the north of the country; is located on the same island capital of the Philippines - Manila, a huge metropolis, one of largest cities SEA. The second airport, which also accepts international flights, is located on the island of Cebu.

With all the variety of choices, it is most convenient to fly to the Philippines via Hong Kong. Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong (as well as the Philippines). Therefore, you can easily combine Hong Kong and the Philippines into one trip (for example, book two nights in Hong Kong there and one night back, and devote the rest of the time to relaxing on exotic islands).

You don't need to obtain a visa in advance for Singapore either, but a flight from Singapore to Manila or Cebu will take much longer than the same route from Hong Kong. Although the travel time Moscow-Singapore and Moscow-Hong Kong on direct flights is almost the same - about 10 hours. But the good thing about flying through Hong Kong is that if you are flying to Boracay and have no plans to visit Manila (but want to get there quickly), then the easiest way is to book tickets Hong Kong-Boracay (Caticlan Airport on Panay Island) - Hong Kong for a flight Cebu Pacific Air(this option is especially convenient for those traveling with children). The flight has a connection in Manila, but if you buy tickets, for example, with a departure at 8.25 from Hong Kong, then at 13.50 you will be in Caticlan and easily catch the ferry; from the airport to the ferry station it is only 10 minutes by car. Booking morning flights from Hong Kong is necessary because Caticlan only accepts small planes that do not have permission to fly at night. Last flight, which departs from Manila to Boracay, operates around 17.00. Therefore, if you book flight tickets Etihad(arrives Manila at 16.00) or Qatar Airways, Emirates, then you need to book a hotel in advance for at least one night in Manila. If you are flying from Manila or Cebu to international Airport Kalibo is also located in Panay, so the arrival time is no less important. From Kalibo to Caticlan, where ferries depart for Boracay, the trip will take at least two hours, and the water area closes at night around 20.00. If you don't catch the last ferry, book a hotel for an overnight stay in Panay. Important. If the hotel offers a transfer, you don’t have to refuse, you don’t have to rely on your own intelligence, luck and the ability to book ferry or plane tickets “on the spot” cheaper. Remember that cheap does not yet mean quality food, and even half an hour spent in a tin can (no other associations arise when you see the boats of private cab drivers) will cost much more than 15 on a speed boat, the trip on which is organized by the hotel. Yes, you may be lucky, but you may also fail. And your own safety is not the case when you need to save money.

Which island should you choose? Features of independent travel to the Philippines.

Lovers go to Boracay snow-white beaches and windsurfing. Cebu is a great opportunity to combine beach, entertainment and shopping. Bohol and Palawan are for fans of eco-tourism and secluded recreation. One of the main questions that arises when planning a holiday on the islands is the ebb and flow of the tides. Of course, there is no need to be afraid that you will have to repeat the fate of Ferdinand Magellan.

It was the ignorance of the ebbs and flows in the Philippines that ruined the navigator. The history of the country, which appeared on the world map relatively recently (less than 500 years ago), begins with the island of Cebu. In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan, heading with his flotilla - without knowing it - to the first trip around the world, lost his way and, as expected, in the best traditions of travelers in the Middle Ages, discovered new lands - the Philippines. Having quickly conquered the island of Cebu and its ruler Humabon, on April 27, 1591, the navigator headed to the neighboring island of Mactan, where local tribes lived. But Magellan’s grandiose plans were not destined to come true; his ships found themselves in a deep low tide. The flotilla was stuck a kilometer from the coast, and the entire crew was forced to disembark from the ships and walk towards the shore. The Aborigines, led by Chief Lapu-Lapu, were in a more advantageous situation. Thanks to the dense tropical thickets and hilly terrain, they were easily camouflaged, while keeping a watchful eye on the invaders, and as soon as they approached, they attacked the “medieval tourists,” killing 9 Europeans, including Magellan himself. Those who managed to escape returned to Spain a year later and brought the sad news of the death of Magellan.

Over five centuries, the country's population has become much friendlier and more hospitable to tourists, but the situation with low tides is still the same. Particularly felt tides on the islands Cebu and Bohol, they are also observed in Boracay, but no longer cause much discomfort. The resort reputation of Cebu and Bohol is justified by the fact that, in comparison with other islands, it is here that the entertainment infrastructure is most developed: promenades, bars and restaurants, plus plenty of space for excursions. So if you can live a couple of hours on the beach or in the pool, then Cebu and Bohol are suitable for you.

These two wonderful islands are also suitable for those who do not like too complicated flights and transfers. There are a minimum number of transfers from Russia to the Philippines precisely if you decide to vacation in Cebu. The flight route will be as follows: flight Moscow-Hong Kong and Hong Kong-Cebu. Arriving in Cebu, you can check into a beach hotel and enjoy your vacation. This is also a convenient option because while relaxing on the island of Cebu or on the island of Bohol you can combine a beach holiday and an excursion program.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN HOTEL PHILIPPINES

Cebu

The history of the Philippines begins in Cebu, and in terms of its popularity among travelers, the island competes with the island of Luzon and the capital of the state, Manila, located on it. There are many historical monuments since the colonization of the island by the Spaniards, space for shopping and entertainment. A good alternative beach holiday there will be a trip to Kawasan waterfalls, where visitors are offered unique hydromassage procedures: a person is placed on a raft woven from bamboo and taken under a rock, under the jets of a waterfall. Visit an amusement park Sky Adventure V Crown Regency Hotels & Resorts and go ice skating in the park Fuente Osmena.

How to get to Cebu You can fly to Cebu from Russia (with one or two transfers) on flights Emirates, Korean Air, Aeroflot and other airlines, or take a convenient flight to Manila, spend 1-2 days there, and from the capital by plane or ferry get to Cebu. Let us immediately warn you that ferry V in this case not the best the best option. Travel time by ferry is 20-22 hours. Ferries companies SUPERCAT operate between Manila and Cebu 5 times a week, the departure schedule changes frequently, so you need to check in advance. Ferry Carlos A. Gothong Lines departs from Pier 18 (Manila Pier 18) 2 times a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, departure at 11.00. Cost from $16. By plane Travel time from Manila to Cebu is 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are several flights per day. First departure at 04.00. The cost of a round trip flight is just over $100.

WHERE TO LIVE. BEST CEBU HOTELS

Hotels with the best beaches in Cebu Movenpick 5* And Shangri-La Mactan 5*. U Movenpick 5* There is private beach, where you can indulge in bliss under the sun and no one will disturb you with intrusive attention. Outdoor Sapphirepool swimming pool surrounded by beautiful gardens. On the hotel beach there is a marine reserve with amazing diversity underwater world – perfect place for diving and snorkeling. And the center aquatic species sports offers a wide variety of water activities. The fitness center and health club features state-of-the-art equipment including a gym, dance studio and steam rooms. The SPA center, surrounded by a fragrant garden, has six different treatment rooms and a variety of relaxation areas. Shangri-La Mactan 5*- ideal for families with children. The hotel consists of two buildings: garden wing (modest delux, delux sea ​​view and several suites) and ocean wing (closer to the ocean, club and premier level rooms). At the hotel reception there is Russian speaking staff. Children's leisure activities are very well organized. Children have a three-story playroom at their disposal, and for teenagers there is a gaming club, stuffed with all kinds of slot machines and computer games. In the evenings the hotel hosts entertainment programs, theme nights with performances by Filipino performers are especially popular. If you are trying to find an alternative Shangri-La Mactan, then you should pay attention to Crimson Resort Resort & SPA 5* . Alegre Beach Resort 4* suitable for those who are looking for privacy, as it is located 2 hours away by car from all settlements. Comfortable rooms, very nice pool and decent beach. Badian Island Beach Resort&SPA 5* located not on Cebu itself, but on Badian Island(across the strait) on the other side of Bohol Island. This is an island hotel consisting of several bungalows with a swimming pool. Very nice beach. In all pools sea ​​water. The hotel offers dietary meals made from organic products. For entertainment, guests can enjoy themed beach activities and barbecue dinners every evening. U Badian Island Beach Resort&SPA has its own coral beach, where hotel guests are taken by boat - beautiful place for snorkeling.

CEBU HOTELS: PRICE COMPARISON ON DIFFERENT BOOKING SITES

BOROCAY HOTELS: PRICE COMPARISON ON DIFFERENT BOOKING SITES

Palawan

When people talk about the island of Palawan, I actually mean a mini-archipelago consisting of several dozen tiny islands and one large one. This is a paradise for divers and lovers of expensive, comfortable holidays in “eco-style”. Palawan is located 600 km from Manila in the southwestern part of the large archipelago of the Philippine islands. The main attraction of Palawan is considered National Park "Puerto Princesa Subterranean River"- an extensive network of many caves connected by an 8-kilometer underground river St. Paul.
Best time to travel to Palawan: January to May; From June to the end of October, it is better to refrain from traveling to the islands, since despite the air temperature rarely falling below 30 degrees, there are heavy rains here.

HOW TO GET TO PALAWAN

Depending on which island of the archipelago the hotel is located on small airplanes local airlines can fly from Manila and Cebu airports Puerto Princesa, Cuyo, Tautau, Pamalican, Busuanga And El Nido. You can move between the islands on yachts or speed boats.
Hotels can also organize their own charter from Cebu airport or Manila, or picked up at Puerto Princesa Airport to take guests to the hotel by boat. The journey, for example, from the port of Puerto Princesa to El Nido will take about 40 minutes.

WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN PALAWAN

The most best hotels, where they offer the most respectable holidays, are located in nature reserve on the El Nido Islands. All resorts here offer accommodation on an all-inclusive system, which includes not only meals, but also full complex entertainment. Therefore, upon arrival, you can immediately develop a program for your stay with an instructor and plan diving, kayaking or picnics on uninhabited islands. It’s worth staying in Palawan for 3-4 days; rarely does anyone stay longer here.
Local landscapes are very reminiscent of the area Phang Nga Bay in Thailand, so some are inclined to claim that the James Bond movie Tomorrow Never Dies, starring Pierce Brosnon, was filmed in El Nido. This is wrong. But local hotels have seen many celebrities even without Agent 007. For example, the pearl of Palawan Amanpulo Resort 5* love to spend their holidays Robert DeNiro And Claudia Schiffer. This luxury reservation, consisting of secluded villas and bungalows, is located on a separate island of the same name as the hotel. Twice a day: at 13.00 and 16.00, our own charter runs from Manila to the hotel. Return flights from Amanpulo to the capital of the Philippines depart at 9.30 and 14.30.
No less beautiful hotel El Nido Apulit Island Resort 4*, opened in 2010, located in Taytay. Perfect for families with children, especially school-aged children, as well as for honeymoon or organizing wedding ceremonies here. The hotel occupies the territory of a private island surrounded by rocks, hidden from prying eyes in quiet bay with snow-white sand. To accommodate hotel guests, the hotel offers 50 water cottages built on stilts, over the water in the traditional Philippine architectural style on the seashore. Each cottage has a private veranda with views of the turquoise bay of Palawan Taytay and the surrounding islands and rocks. The peculiarity of the hotel is that its territory promotes exclusively eco-recreation and complete immersion in nature, so you will have to forget about the TV for a while. But the hotel staff takes full responsibility for the cultural and sports recreation program of its guests. During your stay in El Nido Apulit Island Resort you can take daily boat trips to uninhabited islands, observe birds and animals living in the rainforest, accompanied by a personal guide. And every evening there are themed dinners on the coast.
Another hotel of the chain is located on the island of Lagen El Nido - Lagen Resort 4*. It is considered one of the best resorts in this region. Lagen Resort consists of a complex of bungalows located on a hill or directly on the water. Before neighboring island Palawan can only be reached by boat in 30 minutes.
Economical holidays are offered in El Nido Mineloc Resort 3*, located on the island of the same name. The hotel rooms are a little simpler than its two previous brothers, but the beach here is much better than in Lagen Resort.
Palawan's collection of luxury hotels will soon be expanded with another exclusive hotel located on the island. Huma- 80 overwater bungalows from Movenpick Hotels & Resorts, in the heart of the Palawan archipelago. The island is very popular among divers due to its rich sea ​​world and the wreckage of 12 of the most legendary ships that were wrecked in the mid-20th century.
Huma has many mountains, completely covered with tropical forests and primitive caves, and the endless clean beaches surrounding the island were once the habitat of the “sailor Ibrahim”, who was thrown ashore in 1352 after the wreck of his galleon “Huma” on the way from India To China. Ibrahim has long been dead, but the legend about him and the name of his ship still live.

All hotels on Palawan on the map: price comparison on different sites

If planning independent travel traveling to the Philippines is too difficult for you or you don’t have time for it, it makes sense to contact specialists Top Travel Agent. There are two options: you can order development private itinerary to the Philippines or ask to select a ready-made offer from a tour operator that meets your needs. Feel free to leave a request - it does not oblige you to anything, travel agents will send you options and you can choose either the cheapest one or entrust the organization of your trip to a highly rated specialist in the Philippines