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Boracay to Bohol: 5 Philippines destinations solo travellers can’t wait to visit, after coronavirus subsides

Travelling solo? Why not consider the Philippines for your next adventure? Photo: Aman

The travel industry has been witnessing a steady increase in solo travellers over the past decade. No longer just backpackers roaming through exotic countries, affluent individuals are now increasingly stopping at luxury destinations all on their ownsome.

One place solo tourists are adding to their long list of must-see spots is the Philippines, which offers everything from beach holidays, scuba diving, island hopping, a bustling city life and remote mountain regions. Whether they are keen to party at the beach, dive with sharks or climb tall peaks, this country has it all.

Palawan, in the Philippines, makes a great solo getaway. Photo: Corbis

Unfortunately for thrill-seekers, the Philippine government has announced a travel ban on anyone coming from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau until further notice, due to the coronavirus outbreak, known as Covid-19.

But the for an enjoyable escape once the coronavirus subsides, STYLE has lined up five locations approved by experienced travellers in the Philippines that will satisfy your inner wanderlust.

Palawan

 

Palawan is, simply put, a place you must visit. From stunning beaches, incredible marine life, caves, underground rivers to tiny islands and great beach parties, Palawan has it all.

Here are some of the lesser known ways to spend your time: Palawan is a key stop for birds on their migratory route, so find yourself a good local guide and head into the forests for a full day of exploring the most exiting birds. Give Puerto Princesa a chance, spend some time in the capital and explore the wonderful bar and food scene (try out Kinabuchs Grill and Bar, Palaweño Brewery and Kalui Restaurant).

In 1978 former president Ferdinand Marcos bought giraffes, zebras and antelopes from the Kenyan government and let them loose in the nearby Calauit Safari Park – this rather untypical safari experience is certainly noteworthy.

Luxury hotelier Aman has one of its most beautiful resorts on the unspoilt Pamalican Island, coveted by the most demanding travellers.

Bohol

A freediver at Balicasag Island, Bohol, Cebu, Philippines. Photo: handout

The 10th largest island of the Philippines, Bohol is a great location to spend anything from two days up to two weeks. It’s a destination famous for its Chocolate Hills, and there are also several different trails that allow you to explore the vegetation and wildlife. If you get lucky, you might be able to see Tarsiers, the native primates locals call mamag.

A local guide can help you find your way around the Cambuyo rice terraces, the mahogany forest and even take you up the river in their small local boats. During the firefly season, going for a night paddle board tour or kayaking is as exciting as heading for a dive with the dolphins and whales.

Boracay

The Philippine island of Boracay has previously been voted the best island in Asia by readers of Conde Nast traveller magazine. Photo: Shutterstock

Once known as a party land, Boracay had to close down its beaches due to overtourism. Since reopening, the Filipino government has limited visitors and imposed rules to keep the island cleaner.

The east side of the island offers a variety of water sports activities – and Boracay is the place to learn kitesurfing. For adventurers, head over to Ariel’s Point and explore the dream-come-true beaches nearby. You can also take a quick hike to Mount Luho to get a panoramic view of the island.

Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa provides a tranquil getaway from the buzz, plus wellness programmes for solo travellers to rejuvenate and revive themselves.

Sagada

 

Far away from the tourists and white beaches, Sagada, located in the Mountain Province, boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Philippines. The spookiest spot is surely the hanging coffins on the steep cliffs of the Echo Valley – a 2,000-year-old tradition of how the Igorot people bury the dead, it’s a bizarre yet lively reminder of the region’s rich tribe culture.

Take advantage of Sagada’s hilly landscape, trek the surrounding mountains and visit caves (do not miss Sumaguing Cave). Hike up to Bomod-ok Falls, and if you do not mind the cold, go for a swim too. Wash down local dishes like the liempo (grilled pork belly) and the pinikpikan with the region’s award-winning coffee.

Manila

Check out the traditional street life in the Philippines’ capital, Manilla. Photo: AJ Bolando

Boasting a charming mix of historical colonial sites and modern districts, Manila offers a pleasant short stop before or after you explore the nation’s remote islands.

Relax at heritage hotels like The Peninsula Manila or The Manila Hotel for a luxury take on warm Filipino hospitality. Or do it the millennial way and check into the boutique designs like the new Nobu Hotel. There are various new malls in Makati for high-end shopping. Alternatively, stroll along the roads of Intramuros and Ermita to admire the incredibly rich historical neighbourhoods.

Last but not least, Manila offers some of the best and craziest clubbing in Southeast Asia – the trendy club Black Market or the City of Dreams Manila complex and the lavishly decorated Revel at the Palace are just a few of the options to hit up after dark.

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From the golden sands of Palawan to the spooky mountain landscapes of Sagada, the Philippines is an increasingly attractive destination for independent travellers – here’s why