🌸 The Philippines

One of my favorite trips ever was to the Philippines, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves island life. The country has some of the most beautiful islands I’ve ever seen, and the people are incredibly friendly. The materialistic lifestyle of Europe quickly fades from your mind — here, you’re immersed in the simplicity, kindness, and pure joy of people who are grateful just to be alive.

In this blog, I’ll share my experience and how our trip was structured.

Panglao: Where the Adventure Began

We spent 16 days in the Philippines in April — perfect weather, warm and dry. We landed in Manila late at night and stayed one night at Jen’s Paranaque City Apartment. The next morning, we explored the local, poorer areas of the city, which was eye-opening and gave us a real feel for Manila.

From there, we flew to Panglao, Bohol. We stayed four nights at Alona Peak Residence: a bungalow with a pool, just steps from the center. We rented a scooter to get around, which was already an adventure in itself.

In Bohol, we did so much: snorkeling with whale sharks, exploring the Chocolate Hills by buggy, walking through Bilar Man-Made Forest with the famous “toktoks,” and visiting the tarsiers (you have to be incredibly quiet — they can get a heart attack if startled!). We also went on a boat tour around the stunning islands near Panglao. It was truly an amazing destination.

The TAO Experience: Island Life at Its Best

After four days, we headed to Busuanga. First, a taxi to Tagbilaran City Port Terminal, then a boat to Cebu, followed by a flight to Busuanga, where we stayed at Bay Area Lodge for one night. This was the starting point of the TAO Experience, an absolute must-do in the Philippines.

The TAO Experience is a 3- or 5-day tour from Coron to El Nido (or vice versa), island-hopping with a group of locals and travelers. You sleep at different island basecamps along the way. We did the three-day tour, which included snorkeling at deserted islands, stops at lagoons, reefs, and beaches, overnight stays at basecamps, fresh seafood, outdoor showers, and activities with locals. It was a true WOW experience — real island life, and I loved every second.

El Nido: Where Time Stands Still

After TAO, we arrived in El Nido and checked in at El Nido Coco Resort for four nights. We rested a bit at a beach house in Bucana, but of course, we couldn’t resist more adventures!

We went on another boat tour to incredible islands, kayaked through a lagoon surrounded by cliffs (one of my most peaceful moments ever), swam, and explored caves — I felt like a little H2O mermaid!

We also climbed Taraw Cliff. It’s not for everyone and requires caution, but the sunrise view was absolutely worth it. I truly felt on top of the world. To end our El Nido experience, we kayaked to nearby islands and small beaches, returning at sunset — I mean, is there anything better?

One Last Stop: Back to Coron and Manila

At the end of our trip, we took a boat back to Coron for our flight to Manila. We stayed one night at Westown Resort, then flew to Manila for a final night at Acacia Hotel in the wealthier part of the city. I even got a small tattoo to mark the trip — and just like that, our incredible journey ended.

More Than a Trip — A Memory for Life

If it were up to me, I would go back in a heartbeat. This trip will always hold a special place in my heart, thanks especially to my amazing travel companion. The Philippines, with its stunning nature and warm, kind-hearted people, left an unforgettable impression on me.

Philippines, I Love You — Mahal Na Mahal Kita