Have you ever wondered about getting lost in a country that you’re not familiar with? How about finding a place where you can give your mind peace, and reconnect with nature? Then, the Philippines is a perfect place to relax and discover yourself more. This country has more than 7,000 islands to choose from, so the sky’s the limit! More than taking a break from the stressful urban life, it is also a perfect time to appreciate God’s work of art that can be seen among these islands. Ready to hop in? Great! Here are the top 10 places in the Philippines that you shouldn’t miss!

1. Palawan Philippines

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Palawan is located in the western part of the country and it consists of different islands that can be visited per tour. Bright blue-colored waters, flawless lagoons, and splendid rock formations are some of the things that Palawan is known for. Coron and El Nido are the most popular areas to visit in this peninsula. Aside from the islands, lagoons, and beaches that Coron and El Nido offer, the Underground River is also a popular site in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Some of the popular places that can be visited are the Star beach,

Hidden beach, Secret beach, Ipil beach, Natnat beach, Bukal Beach, Pasandigan beach,

and Paradise beach.

2. Batanes Philippines

From the western part of the country to its north! Known as the “Home of the Winds,” Batanes is the northern-most island in the country! This place maintains a traditional and laid-back way of living. It consists of three major islands and seven islets. One of the reasons why Batanes is popular is, the houses are made of rock stones that are strong enough to conquer several storms every year. It’s known for its calm and windy weather has preserved its postcard-perfect scenery, and friendly culture.

3. Bohol Philippines

When a local hears the word “Bohol,” the Chocolate Hills is what enters their mind the first. Bohol is one of the provinces in the Philippines, located in the Central Visayas region. It is known for its coral reefs, unusual geological formations, also known as Chocolate Hills. These hills turn to cocoa-brown during the dry season, contrasting with the surrounding jungle’s greenery. The province is also known for its islands like Panglao, Pamilacan, and Balicasag.

4. Palaui Island

Located in the region of Cagayan, Palaui Island is known for its fascinating coral gardens and marine reservations. With sandy beaches, panoramic coves, a century-old lighthouse, hidden waterfalls, nice people – all in one place. Huge, roaring waves and echoing wind are also common. There are different species of fish, undisturbed corals and tourists are highly encouraged to camp through tents. The main attraction aside from the beaches is the Farol de Cabo Engaño, an 18th-century lighthouse built during the Spanish invasion.

5. Apo Island, Negros Oriental

Fan of turtles and snorkeling? Then this is the perfect place for you! Apo Island is a small volcanic island located at the southeastern part of Negros Oriental. Apo Island is popular for its marine preserve where there are around 400 species of corals and 650 species of fish. Not to mention, you can swim with sea turtles as you go snorkeling! It is, however, not allowed to touch the sea turtles and distance should be kept for their safety. Manta rays are also wandering around the area of Apo Island in the deeper parts of the sea (20-30 meters below).

6. Bantayan Island, Cebu

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Bantayan Island is an island located in the Visayan Sea, the northern part of Cebu, Philippines. This island is known for its wide bed of white, white sand, fresh air, and gentle waves, and is a good alternative to Boracay. This place is perfect for kids and non-swimmers. Aside from the relaxing feeling given by nature, some of its popular sites are Kota Park, Kota Beach, and sandbar, Ogtong Cave, Paradise Beach, Obo-ob Mangrove Eco Park, Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Virgin Island and Hilantagaan Island, and one more thing – sky diving! (Skydiving, however, is costly. It costs Php 18,000 for 2 hours)

7. Batad, Ifugao Philippines

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Now that we’ve discussed the beaches, then let’s go to the land! Imagine waking up in the morning, hearing the sound of the chirping birds and the fresh breeze of the mountain air. Sounds cool? It is, indeed, cool, especially with the majestic view of rice terraces! The village of Banaue in the province of Ifugao, Batad is famous for its amphitheater-like rice terraces and is known as one of the five clusters of rice terraces in Ifugao that are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. The tour will require trekking or walking along the rice terraces, surrounded by amazing scenery.

8. Calaguas Group of Islands, Camarines Norte Philippines

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Calaguas is a group of islands in the Pacific under the jurisdiction of the town of Camarines Norte. They take pride in their white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and

unspoiled natural resources. It was once a quiet place but now filled with life and activities to choose from, had several structures and residences – but its beauty still shines. You can swim on its turquoise waters, sit on its white sand, watch the sunset, Scuba diving/snorkeling (bring your equipment), camping, island/beach hopping, visit old churches, surfing, and check out different waterfalls like Saltahan Falls, Palanas Falls, Malatap Falls, Burok-Busok Falls, and so on.

9. Hinatuan Enchanted River, Surigao del Sur Philippines

Hinatuan Enchanted River, as they call, is a flawless saltwater river that flows into the Pacific Ocean. It is around 80-feet deep, and just barely long enough to be considered as a river. The visitors are attracted to its beautiful waters that the locals believe to be miraculous. No one is sure where the saltwater emanates from, but they believe that it involves an underground cave system that lets the river water out. Nobody might know the real reasons, but this remains to be a mystery and a beautiful tourist destination.

You may Also enjoy reading Top 20 things to do in Siargao

10. Vigan Philippines

If you’re a fan of exploring the history and experience it yourself, then this is the spot for you. Vigan is located on the west coast of Luzon and is known for its preserved Spanish colonial and Asian architecture. It is also known as one of the World Heritage Sites. Exploring Calle Crisologo, the popular cobble-stones street in Vigan with Spanish period ancestral houses is one of the most popular spots. Dawn is the best time to walk along the street, for it was said to look ‘magical.’ Experience the history and take some Instagram-worthy shots along the Calle Crisologo, the horse-drawn carriages, rustic mansions, the white baroque Vigan Cathedral, Plaza Salcedo and so much more!

Articles is based on personal information and from Philippines Official Tourism Websitte