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PALAWAN GETS NOD AS WORLD TOP TRENDING DESTINATION IN 2024 BY TRIPADVISOR’S BEST OF THE BEST

Manila, Philippines—One of the country’s crown jewels, Palawan, bags another prestigious accolade, this time as one of the Trending Destinations in the World for 2024 on Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel site for travel deals and reviews.

This latest recognition comes on the heels of Palawan’s back-to-back global citations in 2023 as one of the World’s Most Desirable Countries for Adventure, to Travel + Leisure’s top Islands, to Condé Nast Traveler’s Most Beautiful Places in the World and Top Readers’ Choice, cementing the continued winning streak of the island’s enduring appeal as a sought-after travel destination.

“As Palawan continues to turn heads and warm hearts across the globe, this latest accolade from Tripadvisor is but a testament to the island’s timeless allure. Ensuring the sustainability of Palawan’s tourism development and promoting an enhanced tourism experience for travelers is of utmost importance which is why the national government is engaging in collaboration and partnership with the local government units of Palawan,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said of the global citation, citing sustainable practices, conservation efforts and community engagement initiatives as integral components of ensuring that Palawan’s natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.

“We could not be more grateful to the travel community for placing Palawan at the forefront of global travel trends. This singular achievement motivates us to maintain our commitment to sustainable tourism and showcase the beauty of Palawan to the world. Further to this, Palawan’s winning streak on Tripadvisor will certainly have a positive impact on its tourism industry. With the global recognition, the island is poised to attract a surge in visitors, providing a boost to the local economy and reinforcing Palawan’s position as a top-tier travel destination,” the Tourism Chief added.

Renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and unique charm, Palawan boasts some of the country’s pristine and crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush tropical landscapes, and idyllic white-sand beaches. The island destination has long been celebrated for its responsible and sustainable tourism practices while preserving its natural heritage and biodiversity.

A slice of heaven

The island’s recognition by Tripadvisor solidifies its status as a must-visit destination for global explorers seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience. Tripadvisor’s recognition reflects the island’s ability to captivate the imagination of travelers seeking unique and awe-inspiring experiences.

Tripadvisor’s Trending Destinations list is highly anticipated each year, influencing travel decisions for millions of users. Travelers praise Palawan as “a slice of heaven, a sliver of an island that teems with exotic wildlife, quaint fishing villages, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.” Among the destinations that resonated with Tripadvisor users include the endangered animals at the Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, the Japanese shipwrecks of Coron Island, regarded as one of the best dive sites in the world, and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best winners are destinations whose hotels, restaurants, and things to do received a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from its users over a 12-month period. Fewer than one percent of Tripadvisor’s eight million listings are awarded Best of the Best, signifying the highest level of excellence in travel.

A digital travel guide behemoth, Tripadvisor is renowned for its discerning users and comprehensive reviews. It annually curates a list of destinations that capture the attention and admiration of travelers.

Published:January 12, 2024

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Palawan hailed as among world's 'Trending Destination' for 2024 by travel website

Palawan, one of the top tourism destinations in the Philippines, has been named as among the "Trending Destinations in the World for 2024" by TripAdvisor, the largest travel website in the world with a reputation for offering travel deals and reviews.

This was announced by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina G. Frasco on Friday, Jan. 12, saying the recognition is a “testament to the island's timeless allure.”

It is worth noting that such a distinguished award comes after Palawan received back-to-back global recognitions in 2023, including being named one of the World's Most Desirable Countries for Adventure, as well as being named one of Travel + Leisure's Top Islands, Condé Nast Traveler's Most Beautiful Places in the World, and Top Readers' Choice.

“Ensuring the sustainability of Palawan’s tourism development and promoting an enhanced tourism experience for travelers is of utmost importance which is why the national government is engaging in collaboration and partnership with the local government units of Palawan," Frasco said in a statement.

The tourism chief said the Philippines is grateful to the travel industry for elevating Palawan to the forefront of global tourism trends.

“This singular achievement motivates us to maintain our commitment to sustainable tourism and showcase the beauty of Palawan to the world. Further to this, Palawan's winning streak on TripAdvisor will certainly have a positive impact on its tourism industry,” Frasco stated.

“With the global recognition, the island is poised to attract a surge in visitors, providing a boost to the local economy and reinforcing Palawan's position as a top-tier travel destination," she went on.

The DOT said the island's recognition by TripAdvisor solidifies its status as a must-visit destination for global explorers seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience.

“TripAdvisor's recognition reflects the island's ability to captivate the imagination of travelers seeking unique and awe-inspiring experiences,” the agency stated.

Palawan is renowned for its unrivaled natural beauty and unique charm, with some of the country's most pristine and crystal-clear blue waters, lush tropical scenery, and exquisite white-sand beaches. 

The island destination has long been recognized for its ethical and sustainable tourist practices which preserve its natural heritage and wildlife.

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Today’s front page, Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Palawan, Romblon beaches listed with world’s 50 best

• Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo
• May 6, 2024
• 3 minute read

TWO beaches off-the-beaten track in the Philippines made it to this year’s The World’s 50 Best Beaches, a popular online travel site set up by beach enthusiasts.

Making it to number four is Entalula Beach, south of Miniloc Island in El Nido, Palawan, and at number 45 is Bon Bon Beach, a natural sand bar off Bangug Island in Romblon. Topping the list were: Trunk Bay in the Virgin Islands, Cala Mariolu in Italy, and Meads Bay in Anguilla. ( https://tinyurl.com/3765p66c )

Hidden Beach in El Nido was also named among the Best of the Best, considered a “hall of fame” of beaches, composed of beaches that topped the The World’s 50 Best Beaches in previous years, and a select few thought to be deserving.

Describing it as “Palawan’s overlooked slice of heaven,” Entalula Beach is prized by visitors for its privacy, as they swim in its clear waters against a backdrop of dramatic limestone cliffs. “This beach is less frequented than others in the area, offering visitors a chance to escape the usual tourist spots and truly immerse themselves in nature. The water is remarkably clear, providing excellent conditions for both swimming and snorkeling, where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs just a short swim from the shore. Accessible only by boat, Entalula adds an element of adventure and exclusivity to any visit. Its striking natural features and tranquil atmosphere make it a coveted spot for relaxation and appreciating nature,” according to the site.

Madeleine of the  Simply Madeleine  blog, which entered the beach as a nominee, added, “Visiting Entatula Beach is like stepping into a real-life postcard. Imagine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise water framed by lush palm trees and towering limestone cliffs. It’s a true paradise!”

Bon Bon Beach is a sand bar visible during low tide, allowing visitors to walk across its shallow, clear waters to the neighboring Bangug Island. According to the site: “The beach itself is undeveloped, preserving its serene and unspoiled charm. The sand is fine and white, while the water is incredibly clear, providing lovely swimming conditions without big waves. As a lesser-known destination, Bon Bon Beach offers a quiet retreat compared to more tourist-heavy spots, so much so that often you could have this beach all to yourself.”

Meanwhile, Hidden Beach in El Nido is a cove “hidden” away behind steep limestone cliffs offering guests visitors pristine white sand and clear shallow waters. “Hidden Beach is accessible only by boat, followed by a quick swim through a small opening, making for an adventurous beach experience. Surrounded by majestic limestone walls adorned with lush greenery and palms, it feels like stepping into a secluded paradise. Undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the world, its one-of-a-kind setting rightly earns it the title of one of The Best of The Best,” said the site.

Wrote David Ways of the travel site,   The Longest Way Home ,  Hidden Beach is “A turquoise-blue lagoon hidden away from most of the world. It’s not the easiest to visit but most things this pristine are worth the adventure in getting there.”

After soliciting nominations from travel junkies, journalists and its Beach Ambassadors, the list of nominees is narrowed down with the final 50 chosen based on the beach’s uniqueness, wildlife, untouched state, “soundtrack of nature,” stress-free entrance, calm waters, privacy, and “frequently idyllic.”

“Sun, Beaches, Islands [or Sun, Sand, and Sea]” is among the primary tourism products of the Philippines, which attracted close to 2 million inbound tourists from January to April 15 this year.  (See, “Chinese, Japanese tourist numbers help lift PHL visitor arrivals in 4 mos,” in the BusinessMirror, April 22, 2024.)

Related Topics

• beach rankings
• Bon Bon Beach
• Entalula Beach
• hidden gems
• Philippines tourism
• The World’s 50 Best Beaches
• travel destinations

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Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around

Best Time to Go to Palawan

Dry and summer season | november to may, climate and weather, what to wear, how to get to palawan, by ferry via puerto princesa, getting around palawan, by tricycle or e-trikes.

• By Motorcycle

Where to Stay in Palawan

Types of accommodations, neighborhoods and areas, accommodation highlights in palawan, what to see and do in palawan, explore the underground river in puerto princesa.

• Swim in Coron’s Kayangan Lake
• Lounge in El Nido’s Nacpan Beach
• Explore San Vicente’s Port Barton
• Discover Miniloc Island’s Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon in El Nido
• Go Wreck Diving in Coron
• Unwind in San Vicente’s Long Beach

What to Eat and Drink in Palawan

Local cuisine, recommended best restaurants and bars.

• Practical Information and Tips

What to Pack

• Sample Itinerary: Puerto Princesa + Port Barton/San Vicente + El Nido + Coron
• Day 1: Puerto Princesa
• Day 2: Puerto Princesa
• Day 3:  Port Barton
• Day 4: San Vicente

Day 5: San Vicente + El Nido

Day 6: el nido.

• Day 7: El Nido

Day 8: El Nido + Coron

• Day 9: Coron
• Day 10: Coron

Experience the ultimate island life in Palawan, the Last Frontier of the Philippines. Learn about its top destinations. how to get around, and the best things to see and do there in this article. 

Palawan, one of the best places to visit in the Philippines, is consistently ranked as one of the best islands in the world, and for a good reason.

• Find the best Palawan tours for your tropical getaway
• Book  Boracay to Palawan Philippine tour packages

It boasts white sand beaches and islands, clear blue waters, a spectacular variety of marine life and shipwreck sites, and majestic towering limestone cliffs. If you love swimming, island-hopping, and diving, this biggest island province in the Philippines should be in your travel bucket list. 

Palawan has over 1,700 pristine islands and islets scattered in its four main destinations: El Nido, Puerto Princesa, Coron, and San Vicente.

One of the top Palawan destinations is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and New 7 Wonders of Nature, the  Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, or the Underground River .

Last but not least is the emerging Palawan destination, San Vicente , where you can find Long Beach, the longest beach in the Philippines, and the popular beach town of Port Barton. If you want to explore this top island destination in the Philippines, read this ultimate travel guide to Palawan.

See our popular Palawan Vacation Packages

Budget-friendly 4-day coron palawan package at skylodge resort with flights from manila & tour, 5-day nature & islands adventure package to puerto princesa and el nido palawan, stress-free 5-day coron palawan package at bacau bay resort with flights from manila.

The majority of your activities in Palawan are highly dependent on the weather because they're located outdoors. That's why it's best to plan your trip around the dry months in the Philippines and check weather updates first to avoid canceled tours or rough currents, especially when doing  island-hopping tours in Palawan . 

The best time to go to Palawan and its destinations is during the dry summer season, from November to May. The warmest months are from March to April, the summer season in the Philippines. Palawan tours, especially the  Puerto Princesa Underground River tour  and island-hopping tours, are best maximized during these months.

However, this is also the peak season since most locals prefer to go to islands and beaches during this time. It is highly recommended to book your tours in advance during the summer season. You can even avail of private tours if you’re in a big group if you prefer the exclusivity. 

You can expect a warm tropical climate almost all year round in Palawan, except in the rainy season, usually around July to September. The month with the most rainfall is during September.

The warmest months are from March to April, with temperatures reaching 33°C. The month with the lowest degrees are from November to February with an average temperature of 23°C but is still dry. Here's an overview of the monthly temperature in Palawan: 

Source: NOAA

The best clothes to wear when you’re exploring Palawan are those made with light and breathable fabric that can also let you move freely. If you’re joining island-hopping or beach tours, you can opt to wear aqua shoes for added safety for your feet when swimming.

If you’re joining land or city tours, make sure to wear comfortable clothes as well and sunglasses, hats, and bring an umbrella to shield you from the sun.  

The province of Palawan and its top destinations are accessible via land, sea, and air travel. Puerto Princesa is often the gateway to the province of Palawan since more flights are going here than to other airports. Your choice of entry point will affect your budget and itinerary, so it's best to look into which place best fits your preferences. 

However, more flights are going to Puerto Princesa, and it covers international flights aside from domestic. Read more below to learn how you can travel to Palawan through different routes.  

Via Puerto Princesa 

Domestic and international flights to Puerto Princesa are available almost daily. If you're coming from Manila, the travel time for Manila to Puerto Princesa flights is just over an hour. Likewise, if you're coming from Cebu, the travel time for Cebu to Puerto Princesa flights is just over an hour. There are also Clark to Puerto Princesa flights , Iloilo to Puerto Princesa flights, and Davao to Puerto Princesa flights available on most airlines.

It is the usual route of travelers who want to explore the main island of Palawan, which also includes El Nido and San Vicente/Port Barton, which you can reach by bus or van with Puerto Princesa transfers . You can read more about this route in our  Puerto Princesa travel guide .  

See our popular Puerto Princesa Transfers

Private puerto princesa airport palawan to or from any puerto princesa city hotel transfer service, private puerto princesa airport to or from el nido town transfer service, shared puerto princesa airport to or from el nido town van transfer service.

Via El Nido 

If you want to explore only or go to El Nido first, the fastest flights to El Nido from Manila are direct flights to Lio Airport.  AirSwift is currently the only airline that services this route with up to four flights per day. The travel time is around 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are also Boracay to El Nido flights and Clark to El Nido flights available in some airlines.

From Lio Airport, El Nido's Town Proper is easily accessible by land travel of 30 minutes. It is a quicker option than flying from Puerto Princesa then traveling by land to El Nido for 5-6 hours via El Nido transfers . You can learn more about this in our  El Nido travel guide . 

See our popular El Nido Transfers

Private transfer - el nido palawan lio airport to/from any hotel in el nido town.

Via Coron 

Coron is located on a separate group of islands above the main island of Palawan. You can go here by flying to Francisco B. Reyes Airport or Busuanga Airport for around 1 hour of travel time from Manila. Most major domestic airlines have daily flights to Coron  and flights to Busuanga from significant destinations like Manila, Clark (Pampanga), and Cebu.

From the airport, you can reach Coron's Town Proper by Coron transfers land travel of around half an hour. From Coron, you can reach El Nido by a 4-hour ferry. From El Nido, you can explore Puerto Princesa and San Vicente/Port Barton by land travel. Read more about this in our  Coron Travel Guide . 

See our popular Coron Transfers

Private busuanga airport to or from any hotel in coron town van transfer service, shared coron busuanga airport to or from coron palawan town proper transfer service, coron busuanga palawan airport to or from any hotel in coron town private van transfer service.

Via San Vicente/Port Barton 

A newer entry point to Palawan is the emerging tourist destination called San Vicente/Port Barton, located between Puerto Princesa and El Nido. From Manila (1 hour) or Clark (Pampanga) (1.5 hours), you can directly fly to San Vicente airport.

From San Vicente, you can also explore Puerto Princesa and El Nido by land travel. Read more about this route in our  San Vicente Travel Guide .  

Since it's an island, Palawan is also accessible by ferry rides from Manila. It is, however, more extended in travel time. Your entry point is Puerto Princesa.  2Go Travel has trips for this route every Tuesday and Friday, with a travel time of almost a day.

There are different types of accommodations on board available, so make sure to book in advance if possible to have the most comfortable long travel by sea. 

Traveling around the top attractions in Palawan destinations is possible through different types of land and sea transfers. You may opt to commute, hire private transfers, or rent self-drive vehicles. Take note that not all of these are applicable for long travels or all Palawan destinations, so find out first, which are the best transportation for the distance and place you're traveling to.

Palawan's leading island destinations like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and San Vicente/Port Barton can be explored by land transfers, while the separate islands of Coron can only be reached by sea transfer from the main island. Here are some of your options when exploring the island of Palawan.  

By Bus 

If you're coming from Palawan's main island destinations and want to travel to/from destinations like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and San Vicente/Port Barton, then riding a public bus is one of your options. You have the option to ride an ordinary (non-AC) or air-conditioned bus. 

It is convenient for those who travel with big or multiple luggage since there are compartments where you can store them. There's also more legroom making for a more comfortable ride, especially on long trips. The only downside is that the travel time might be longer than vans because buses make stops along the way to pick-up or drop-off passengers.  

Riding vans is another land transfer option for long trips in the main island of Palawan when traveling to/from Puerto Princesa and El Nido, and San Vicente/Port Barton. Vans are slightly faster than the buses because they usually do point-to-point transfers (ex: Puerto Princesa to El Nido) and only make stops for lunch or bathroom breaks.

By Jeepney 

The iconic jeepneys in the Philippines are also available in Palawan, mainly in the capital Puerto Princesa. These are ideal only when traveling within a town or a city since they follow a specific route.

You'll be sharing the ride with locals or other tourists since a jeepney can accommodate up to 16 people or more depending on its size. If you want to ride a jeepney, it's best to know first which route will pass by the attraction you're going to.

The drivers and locals are your best source of information, so don't be afraid to ask. You can also advise the driver where you're heading so he can notify you if it's already your stop. 

Unlike the jeepney, tricycles can travel outside of their routes and drop you off directly to your destination. Regular tricycles are available in the town centers of Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron, while rechargeable electronic tricycles (e-trikes) are available in San Vicente/Port Barton.

However, these can only accommodate 2-4 people depending on the size and layout of the tricycle. You can also hire these as private transfers for a full day of the tour. Rates will depend on your deal with the driver. 

The Palawan main island destinations can be explored by land travel, except for Coron, which is located north in a separate group of islands. You can get to Coron from the main island of Palawan by riding a ferry.

The most popular route is El Nido to Coron and vice versa. Travel time is around 4 hours for this route. Make sure to check the dates of ferry transfers so you can plan your itinerary accordingly.  

By Motorcycle 

For a more rugged type of travel, you can ride a motorcycle (locally called habal-habal) with a local driver or rent a self-drive motorcycle. These are a great option if you're traveling alone or with a buddy. Motorcycles are suitable for both short and long-distance travel, and can even take you through narrow roads to do your exploring. 

This section will discuss the types of accommodation, neighborhoods, and areas, and recommended hotels, resorts, or guesthouses in Palawan.

You will have several options on where to stay in Palawan, each one offering a different experience, crowd, and view. Read on below to learn about the types of accommodations around Palawan so you can choose the best one for your preference and budget.

Island and Beach Resorts

Like a tropical getaway destination, the best accommodation locations in Palawan are those on islands and beaches. You'll get an unobstructed view and direct access to the white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets for that idyllic island life. These resorts are perfect for those who want to go on a honeymoon in the Philippines . Price points depend on the amenities and how secluded or private the island or beach is.

But the majority are on the mid- to high-range prices. Most of the 5-star resorts offer  Philippine luxury vacation packages  and have restaurants, bars, pools, and dive centers on the property already. 

Palawan also has a variety of hotels, from low to high-range prices with modern to native designs. If you're staying in town centers, you'll most likely find several hotels that can suit any budget or preference.

It's just a matter of choosing the best ones to fit your criteria and preferred location. The higher-priced hotels have complete amenities with magnificent views, while lower prices hotels have basic features.

Backpacker Hostels/Inns/Guesthouses

For shoestring budget travelers, don't fret because Palawan also has accommodation options for you. There are backpacker-friendly accommodations like budget hostels, inns, and guesthouses all over Palawan.

You can choose from dorm-type to private rooms. The majority of these have shared bathrooms and shared spaces. If you like meeting other travelers from all over the world and don't mind a busy crowd, especially at night, then this is a good option for you. 

Camping and Glamping 

Want to be one with nature and sleep under the stars while the crashing of the waves lulls you to sleep? Go for camping or glamping type of accommodations in Palawan.

You can choose to bring your tent and pitch in camping grounds or book in glamping resorts. Glamping is a more glamorous type of camping where you're provided with a tent furnished with a mattress and other fixtures for a comfortable stay.

Vacation Rentals

Live like the locals when you book vacation rentals in Palawan. These are privately-owned houses where you're given exclusive use of the units that have a fully-equipped kitchen and furnished bedrooms and living room. These are a good option if you're traveling with a big group and prefer to lessen expenses by preparing your food. 

Where you stay during your trip is essential. It will significantly affect where you eat, the duration of travel time, transportation budget, and the vibe of the place. It is why you have to carefully choose which neighborhoods or areas you prefer to stay in before booking accommodation. 

Town Center 

If you want to be close to restaurants and bars, souvenir shops, and transport terminals, then you should book accommodation in the town centers of Palawan destinations. The majority of accommodations here, however, don't have direct access to the beaches. Most town center accommodations are hotels, backpacker hostels/inns/guesthouses, and vacation rentals.

Islands 

If you prefer to splurge for exclusivity and privacy, you should check out accommodations like luxury resorts in the islands of Palawan.

Island accommodations usually already have complete amenities and in-island establishments since you can't easily travel to the town centers. Island accommodations are typically limited to just several rooms or villas per island, so it's best to book these in advance.

Towns Outside of Center

A variety of accommodations are available also in towns outside of the town centers in Palawan. These range from budget to luxury accommodations and offer different experiences and vibe, depending on the location and infrastructure. Puerto Princesa, for example, has areas like northwest of the city center, El Nido has areas like Corong-Corong, and San Vicente has areas like Port Barton and Long Beach. 

Regardless of where you plan to stay in Palawan, there are options for every budget needs and preferences. You can stay in budget, mid-range, or luxury accommodations. Here are some of the top Palawan  Puerto Princesa hotels , El Nido hotels , Coron resorts , and San Vicente hotels that you can choose from: 

Budget Accommodations

Palawan doesn't need to be expensive. There are budget-friendly accommodations like backpacker hotels, inns, and guesthouses in the top Palawan destinations. You will be provided with necessities in a dorm-type room or private room.

Most of these also have shared bathrooms and standard rooms where you can mingle with other travelers. Here are some of the top budget hotels in Palawan that you can choose from: 

Blue Lagoon Inn and Suites (Puerto Princesa)

This tropical-inspired accommodation in Puerto Princesa is just 5 minutes away from the airport. Its location provides you with easy access to the city attractions in Puerto Princesa. They have villa-type rooms where you can also enjoy amenities like the outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and massage treatments. 

Spin Designer Hostel (El Nido)

A popular and top-rated budget-friendly hostel for backpackers in El Nido. This hip accommodation has dorm-type and private rooms. Aside from the sleeping facilities, they also have a shared kitchen, barbecue area, gaming room, and a terrace with a forest view. They also have fun activities like movie nights with free popcorn, beer pong, and margarita nights.  

Fat Monkey Hostel (Coron)

This hostel is perfect for backpackers and budget travelers. It’s located within a major highway in Coron and offers dorm-type rooms and private rooms. Like other hostels, Fat Monkey also has common areas where you can socialize with other travelers.   

Picardal Lodge (San Vicente)

Picardal Lodge offers budget-friendly rooms in San Vicente’s Poblacion area with family rooms that have air-conditioning and private bathrooms, and backpacker fan rooms shared with other travelers. It’s located within walking distance of the town center’s restaurants, public market, and jump-off point for island-hopping tours.    

• Book transportation from San Vicente Palawan Airport

Mid-range Accommodations

If you’re willing to shell out a bit more money for a higher-end and more comfortable accommodation in Palawan, you also have a lot to choose from.

You get a sense of privacy since rooms are exclusive for each group, and are equipped with private bathrooms as well. Here are some of the top-rated mid-range accommodations from different Palawan destinations that you can choose from:

Blue Palawan Beach Club (Puerto Princesa)

This stylish resort in Puerto Princesa is located near the beach so you can enjoy relaxing strolls on the shore or enjoy the sea breeze during your stay here.

They have modern beachfront villa-like rooms that can accommodate couples, big groups, or families. Aside from joining  tours in Puerto Princesa , you can also try water activities in the resort or have a relaxing dip in their pool. 

El Nido Garden Resort (El Nido)

This beachfront resort in Calaan Beach has a stunning view of the El Nido islands with majestic karst cliffs. Some of their modern rooms also have a private patio if you want to lounge outside and enjoy the scenery. Aside from modern rooms, they also have a bar and an outdoor pool.

Coron Westown Resort (Coron)

This beachfront resort in Coron with contemporary modern rooms also has two outdoor pools and a Mexican-themed bar where you can sing your heart out in karaoke. They also have rooms with balconies if you prefer an additional extravagance to your stay. 

Victoria Beach House (San Vicente)

A secluded beachfront native-styled resort at the far end of Long Beach that is perfect for a relaxing escape. They have air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms.

Guests rave about the sunset views here. You can enjoy the view from your hammock in the balconies of each room or by the beach where you can also play with local kids.

Luxury Accommodations 

Live the life of royalty when you stay at luxury accommodations in Palawan. The majority of these luxury hotels and resorts have the best location, from pristine beach fronts to private islands.

Aside from the exclusivity, you’re guaranteed to get the best service and amenities for that perfect tropical escape in Palawan. Check out some of the highly-recommended luxury resorts and hotels in Palawan: 

Princess Garden Island Resort (Puerto Princesa)

This posh resort is a mere 10-minute land travel away from Puerto Princesa airport. It offers top-notch facilities, amenities, and services for those looking for an idyllic tropical escape in Palawan's capital.

You have the option to stay in rooms, suites with a pool or beach view, or at the water villas. Aside from en suite bathrooms and kitchenettes, most of the rooms here also have a jacuzzi and balcony. The resort has its restaurant and bar, outdoor pool, gym, and water sports facilities.

El Nido Resorts (El Nido)

The highly-coveted accommodations in El Nido are those located on the islands that are part of the El Nido Resorts group. These include sustainable resorts in El Nido's Apulit Island, Miniloc Island, Lagen Island, and Pangulasian Island.

The rooms, suites, and villas on the island resorts are designed with indigenous Filipino materials but are equipped with modern features. You have the option to stay in rooms by the beach, garden, or those perched on the water. Aside from world-class tropical island amenities, the service in these resorts is also highly-rated.  

See our popular El Nido Vacation Packages

Affordable 4-day el nido palawan package at den'gi inn with island hopping tour & daily breakfast, fun-filled 4-day el nido palawan package at charlie's el nido with island hopping & airfare.

Club Paradise Palawan (Coron)

This exclusive luxury island resort of  Club Paradise Palawan in Coron is blessed with magnificent views of Coron's azure waters and islands. Your home away from home in this resort is beachfront thatched cottages with balconies where you can relax and enjoy the relaxing island vibe.

They also have a spa for guests to unwind and a dive center for beginner and professional divers to explore the vibrant marine life of Coron. 

See our popular Coron Vacation Packages

Comfy 4-day coron palawan budget package at ruhe suites with flights from manila, tour & transfers.

Club Agutaya Resort (San Vicente)

Located along the stretch of 14.7km Long Beach in San Vicente is this eco-friendly resort that offers luxurious accommodations inspired by Filipino design elements. The en suite bathrooms of their rooms have solar-powered showers.

Guests in the resort have direct access to Long Beach and an outdoor pool overlooking the sea view. They're also an authorized turtle sanctuary where you can join baby turtle release activities.  

Puerto Princesa isn't just a jump-off point for Palawan destinations like El Nido and San Vicente/Port Barton; it's also home to the UNESCO Heritage Site and New7Wonders of Nature  Underground River or the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

In the Underground River tour , you will board a boat while cruising along the turquoise waters of the river, and you will see the natural rock formations of the protected cave. 

Read our Top Things to Do in Puerto Princesa article

Book an Iwahig firefly watching tour

Go on a Puerto Princesa whale shark tour

See our popular Puerto Princesa Tours and Activities

Shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers, palawan puerto princesa honda bay island hopping tour with lunch | starfish, luli, & cowrie islands, swim in coron’s kayangan lake .

Experience swimming in the cleanest lake in the Philippines, Kayangan Lake. It is the most popular attraction in Coron and can be visited by booking a Coron Kayangan Lake island hopping tour . Also known as The Blue Lagoon, the lake is set in the middle of towering limestone cliffs and is best for swimming, snorkeling, and freediving.

The stop during the hike to the lake is the iconic view of the sea with azure waters, which is usually mistaken as Kayangan Lake. 

Read our Top Things to Do in Coron article

Book a  Coron firefly watching  tour

See our popular Kayangan Lake Tours

Coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package, palawan coron ultimate island hopping tour with lunch | kayangan lake & twin lagoon, palawan coron kayangan lake, beaches & snorkeling island hopping private tour a with lunch, lounge in el nido’s nacpan beach .

Enjoy a laid back beach day at El Nido’s top destination, Nacpan Beach. This 4-kilometer strip of cream-colored sand lined with coconut trees is a favorite destination for local and foreign tourists apart from  island-hopping tours in El Nido .

Here you can work on your tan, read a book, or relax under the shade of the trees while listening to the calming crashing of the waves. Nacpan Beach is part of the Twin Beaches with the adjacent Calitang Beach. Make sure to hike up to the highest point to see the stunning view of the two beaches.

Read our Top Things to Do in El Nido article

Explore San Vicente’s Port Barton 

• Read our article on the best hotels and resorts in Port Barton
• See our San Vicente tours

See our popular Port Barton Tours

10-day beautiful palawan beaches tour package to puerto princesa, port barton, el nido & coron, ultimate 1-week palawan tour package to puerto princesa, port barton & el nido from manila, amazing 2-week island hopping & nature tour package to palawan, cebu & boracay from manila, discover miniloc island’s big lagoon and small lagoon in el nido.

You cannot leave El Nido without exploring its breathtaking lagoons in Miniloc Island, particularly Big Lagoon in the  El Nido island-hopping Tour A , and Small Lagoon in the  El Nido island-hopping Tour D . Big Lagoon is a postcard-worthy sight because of its turquoise-colored waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. 

It is the spot in El Nido most featured in movies and travel photos and drone shots. In the Small Lagoon, you can explore paddle a kayak where you enter through a crack in the limestone walls, and this will lead you to a natural pool with serene crystal clear waters. You can also try other El Nido island hopping tours .

See our popular El Nido Island Hopping Tours

Palawan el nido shared island hopping tour a with lunch & transfers | secret lagoon, shimizu island, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour c with lunch & transfers | secret beach, hidden beach, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour d with lunch & transfers | cadlao lagoon, paradise beach, go wreck diving in coron .

Apart from Kayangan Lake, Palawan's Coron is also a top diving destination because of its World War II shipwreck sites. You can explore a total of 13 shipwrecks in its open waters, the majority were Japanese fleet during the war, when you book a Coron shipwreck snorkeling tour .

• Book Coron diving packages

Forbes has also declared these Coron dive sites as some of the world's best. For non-professional divers, you can also see some of these shipwrecks that are found in more shallow areas that are good for snorkeling like the Skeleton Wreck. 

See our popular Coron Diving Courses and Packages

3-day budget diving coron palawan package at skylodge resort with discover scuba course & equipment, stunning 5-day coron palawan diving package at skylodge resort with open water driver course, palawan coron wreck dive specialty course with guide, equipment, transfers & lunch, unwind in san vicente’s long beach .

It's also the second-longest in Southeast Asia. Long Beach is three times the length of Boracay's famous White Beach but without the crowds and establishments lined up on the beachfront.

Find out the other attractions you can see and do in San Vicente

As an island destination, seafood is abundant in Palawan. You can feast on fresh fish, crabs, shrimps, lobsters, and more at an affordable price compared to those served in metropolitan cities. These are also served in island-hopping tours in Palawan, where your boat crew serves a hefty spread in one of your beach or island stops.

Apart from seafood, Palawan is also known for an exotic delicacy called tamilok (woodworm) that are freshly harvested from wood and eaten raw or cooked in vinegar like ceviche. In El Nido, a must-try dish is the Bird's Nest Soup that is made from nests of swiftlets formed by its saliva.

These nests are sourced from the crevices of the limestone cliffs of El Nido. El Nido translates to "The Nest" because of the abundance of this ingredient in the town. 

See our popular Firefly Watching Tours

Bohol firefly watching private evening cruise at abatan river with transfers, palawan puerto princesa bay cruise & iwahig river firefly watching tour with dinner & transfers, palawan coron firefly watching walking tour with dinner & transfers.

Kinabuchs Grill and Bar (Puerto Princesa)

A popular dining spot for local and foreign tourists that serves mouthwatering seafood and Filipino dishes. From adobo to grilled dishes, this restaurant is a great place to introduce you to Filipino cooking. They also serve the exotic delicacy of Palawan called tamilok (woodworm) and crocodile  sisig . Diners love the cozy ambiance of the restaurant as well. 

Badjao Seafood Restaurant (Puerto Princesa)

Enjoy the mangrove and sea view when you dine at this seafood restaurant in Puerto Princesa. Diners rave about their perfectly Filipino-styled cooked fresh seafood like crabs, lobsters, and local fish. Tourists love the laid back tropical vibe in the restaurant designed with natural materials. 

Palaweño Brewery (Puerto Princesa)

If you're planning a chill drinking session in Puerto Princesa, head to the Palaweño Brewery, which is known for its unique line of craft beers. This female-owned and operator craft brewery has been making waves in the press and the internet in recent years. Their craft beers are made with fresh local ingredients.  

Trattoria Altrove (El Nido and Coron)

Don’t miss the opportunity to eat at this rustic restaurant dubbed the best brick oven pizza place in El Nido and Coron. Aside from freshly baked pizza, they’re also known for whipping up tasty pasta dishes. Their Pancetta Con Tartufo pizza and Gamberetti Aglio Olio pasta are must-tries and best paired with a bottle of wine. 

El Nido Boutique & Art Cafe (El Nido)

This long-time homegrown favorite has a breathtaking view of the sea and islands of El Nido. Aside from their tasty organic salads, freshly baked bread, pizza, and pasta, they also serve craft beers from Puerto Princesa’s Palaweño Brewery. On the first floor is a souvenir shop where you can find unique crafts and items to bring back home. 

Kawayanan Grill (Coron)

If you're craving for fresh seafood and grilled dishes in Coron, try out this humble native-styled restaurant. A must-try is their Kawayanan Platter, which has generous servings of fresh crab, squid, shrimp, fish, clams, and lato (seaweed).  

Mango Bar & Restaurant (San Vicente)

This local-favorite is strategically located in the heart of the town center of San Vicente's Poblacion area, just walking distance from the port where you get picked-up and dropped-off for island-hopping tours. They serve tasty and fresh seafood dishes for low to mid-range prices. A must-try is the pit or slipper lobsters. 

Practical Information and Tips 

Excited to plan your Palawan trip? Read on below first on some essential travel tips that will make your Palawan trip hassle-free. Sometimes it’s these small things we tend to ignore that make or break a trip.

Currency 

Bring enough cash in Philippines Peso (PHP) wherever you're going in Palawan. While there are ATM in Puerto Princesa and some town centers, it's better to be always prepared. Make sure to break your cash in smaller bills if you're exploring areas that are not busy.  Some high-end restaurants or hotels and resorts accept credit cards, but to be safe, cash is still the best. 

Language 

The locals of Palawan speak Filipino, Cuyonon, and other dialects and languages. The majority can understand and speak basic English, especially those that work in tourism-related establishments. Try to talk in a neutral accent so locals can easily know what you're saying. 

If you plan to do physically-demanding activities like trekking or extreme sports, make sure that you pack the right gear. Some accommodations in Palawan, like El Nido, don't have electricity 24/7, so bring flashlights with you. San Vicente is particularly notorious for sand flies or small mosquitoes during night time, mainly near the beach, so make sure to pack insect repellant. 

Sample Itinerary: Puerto Princesa + Port Barton/San Vicente + El Nido + Coron 

Exploring the top destinations in Palawan is possible if your schedule permits it, but it requires a well-prepared itinerary to make it possible. We recommend at least 8-10 days to pull this off. You can also choose to visit just one or two destinations in Palawan. Here’s a sample itinerary for Palawan that you can take inspiration from: 

Day 1: Puerto Princesa 

05:30 AM - ETA in Puerto Princesa

06:00 AM - Breakfast before your Puerto Princesa tours

07:00 AM - ETD for  Underground River tour with lunch  

04:00 PM - Back to the hotel to freshen up 

06:00 PM - Dinner 

08:00 PM - Drinks and social  

Day 2: Puerto Princesa 

07:00 AM - Breakfast and prepare for the tour

09:00 AM -  Honda Bay island-hopping tour with lunch

05:00 PM - Back to the hotel to freshen up 

06:00 PM - Dinner

08:00 PM - Drinks and social

Day 3:  Port Barton 

06:00 AM - Check-out of hotel and breakfast 

07:30 AM - ETD to Port Barton 

10:30 AM - ETA in Port Barton; check-in at the hotel 

12:00 NN - Lunch 

03:00 PM - Lounge by the beach

06:00 PM - Dinner and drinks

Day 4: San Vicente 

07:00 AM - Breakfast

09:00 AM - San Vicente Island-hopping tour with lunch

05:00 PM - ETA in San Vicente’s Poblacion

05:30 PM - Ride e-trike to the hotel in Long Beach or Poblacion

06:30 PM - Check-in at hotel

07:30 PM - Dinner and drinks

08:00 AM - Lounge at Long Beach 

10:00 AM - Check out of the hotel 

11:00 AM - Lunch at Poblacion 

12:30 PM - ETD to El Nido 

03:30 PM - ETA in El Nido; Check-in at hotel 

05:00 PM - Chill at Nacpan Beach  

07:00 PM - Dinner and drinks

09:00 AM -  El Nido island-hopping tour A  or island hopping tour B with lunch 

08:00 PM - Drinks and social 

Day 7: El Nido 

09:00 AM -  El Nido island-hopping tour C  or island hopping tour D  with lunch 

05:30 AM - Check-out of hotel 

06:00 AM -  Ride the fast ferry to Coron 

10:00 AM - ETA in Coron 

10:30 AM - Check-in at hotel 

03:30 PM -  Climb Mt. Tapyas and watch the sunset

06:00 PM - Dip at Maquinit hot springs

08:00 PM - Dinner and drinks

Day 9: Coron 

09:00 AM -  Coron island-hopping tour with lunch

Day 10: Coron 

08:00 AM - Explore the town of Coron

11:00 AM - Early lunch 

12:00 NN - Check-out of hotel and travel to the airport

01:00 PM - ETA in airport

03:00 PM - Flight departure

Start Planning Your Ultimate Palawan Trip!  

Experience the perfect island holiday at Palawan’s top destinations. Discover the enchanting beauty of the underground river and explore the islands of Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa, chill at Port Barton and Long Beach in San Vicente, find out why El Nido is a top island destination with its island-hopping tours, and last but not least, discover the underwater treasures and Kayangan Lake and lagoons of Coron.

• 1-week Puerto Princesa to El Nido tour package
• Palawan to Cebu airfare and tour package
• Coron to El Nido tour
• El Nido to San Vicente tour
• Puerto Princesa to San Vicente tour
• Cebu to Coron to El Nido tour
• Coron Palawan Westown Resort package

Nature and adventure lovers will truly enjoy and fall in love with Palawan. Find out for yourself why tourists rave about this island province and why it’s consistently named as one of the best destinations in the world. 

Plan your Palawan trip today! Check out  Palawan tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary for the ultimate island getaway. 

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Palawan tourism stakeholders try to boost tourism post-pandemic

Tuesday, June 20, 2023 Favorite

Efforts are underway to make the province an even more attractive destination for travelers and adventure-seekers,stakeholders of the local tourism and hospitality industry of Palawan in Philippines on Sunday said.

The current Tourism TravelFairin PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, according to Rey Felix Rafols, president of the Palawan Tourism Council (PTC), was organised as a one-stop-shop for travellers seeking information, various locations, and educated choices regarding their trip plans with the support of qualified experts.

The three-day travel fair began on Saturday at Robinsons Place Palawan and will end on Monday.

With the theme “Experience a Renewed Palawan: Celebrating People, Festival, Places, Food, and Culture,” it is one of numerous activities associated with the month-long Baragatan Festival.

The Baragatan (convergence or conference) displays the province’s cultural groups through trade shows, exhibitions, float parades, and street dance, among other activities.

According to Rafols, the travel expo allows tourism and hospitality enterprises to display their products and services to potential clients.

“Its purpose is to commemorate tourism, encompassing not only the overall magnificence of Palawan and its unspoiled beaches but also the indomitable spirit of the Palaweños, which has consistently been regarded as one of our most valuable strengths,” he said in an interview.

Rafols stated that despite the pandemic’s obstacles, Palawan continues to be resilient, looking forward, and embracing.He emphasised the need of the provincial government prioritising the promotion of cuisine tourism and historical tours as a critical step in sustaining the revitalization of Palawan’s tourism economy.

“There’s room for improvement in food and offering cultural heritage tourism, and hopefully, with the help of our tourism officials in the provincial government, we can do it,” he added.

During the opening of the travel expo, Provincial Board member Roseller Pineda emphasised the importance of having no off-season for tourism in Palawan, or the Philippines as a whole, because it is a tropical country with no winter season.

Pineda proposed encouraging tourism during the off-season by offering incentive travel to attract local travellers to fill gaps during the wet season, which occurs in the second part of the year.

“During the off-season, we must encourage local travelers, both Palaweños and all Filipinos. The provincial government, city government, and every local government unit in Palawan can offer incentive travel,” he said.

According to Pineda, one way is for the government or even private firms to give travel incentives to their employees if they reach a certain level of performance.

“If we can do that in Palawan and, little by little, with the help of the DOT (Department of Tourism), we can lobby or appeal to the governors’ league to implement it nationwide and provide incentive travel to top-performing workers. The beneficiary of that would be Palawan because we are known as a prime tourist destination,” he added.

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Meet The Billionaire Betting Big On An Idyllic Island Retreat In The Philippines

Inside andrew tan's $720 million eco-tourism project in the country’s pristine beachside paradise., by jonathan burgos , forbes staff.

T he pitch is for tropical paradise: turquoise waters that lap a pristine shoreline fringed by lush, mist-streaked greenery. Philippine property giant Megaworld extolls on its Facebook page the virtues of Palawan island, the largest of a 1,780-island group by the same name that hangs to the left of the island nation in the Pacific. Here, Megaworld is pursuing its most complex project yet, a resort and residential estate that will be the island’s biggest real estate development to date.

On 462 hectares in San Vicente, a quiet, relatively untouched corner of Palawan’s northern coast, known for its rich biodiversity, virgin forests, steep karst cliffs and the longest white sand beach in the Philippines, Megaworld has a 15-year plan to raise a township from among the coconut trees—an ecofriendly addition, it says, to its hospitality, office, retail and residential portfolio that spans the country. When finished, Paragua Coastown will include two 10-story hotels, a residential condominium, villas, a hospital, a school, and wellness-related centers.

Megaworld, owned by billionaire Andrew Tan ’s spirits-to-property conglomerate Alliance Global Group, is pouring over 40 billion pesos ($720 million) into the venture—a tenth of what it plans to spend on building townships across the Philippines in the next five years. The company is banking on getting in on the ground floor as the island remakes itself into one of the country’s top tourist destinations. Some 1.5 million people, of which about 650,000 were overseas travelers, visited the island in 2023, nearly twice as many as the previous year, according to government figures, as tourists return to the Philippines post-Covid. (Boracay, the archipelago’s most popular resort island, had over 2 million visitors last year.) “We intend to showcase the best sustainable tourism and green living concepts by developing it into an ecotourism township,” Kevin Tan, Andrew’s eldest son and Megaworld’s executive vice president and chief strategy officer, says by email.

Andrew Tan (left), chairman of spirits-to-property conglomerate Alliance Global and his eldest son, Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global.

San Vicente is seen as the next frontier in the island’s commercial boom, catching up to Palawan’s other island centers where tourism is flourishing, including its capital, Puerto Princesa City (home to the 8.2-kilometer underground river, a Unesco World Heritage site), and El Nido, a municipality comprised of small islands at Palawan’s northern tip that has in recent years become a playground for backpackers and jetsetters alike. Ayala Land, controlled by billionaire Jaime Zobel de Ayala and his family, has already made inroads as El Nido’s biggest developer, owning the 325-hectare Lio tourism estate along with four other resorts in the town’s smaller islands.

Megaworld broke ground last year on its 306-room Savoy Hotel Palawan and the nearby 189-unit Oceanfront Premier Residences tower, which are both slated to be completed in 2028. Construction of the 313-room Paragua Sands Hotel, which will open in 2029, has yet to start.

Most rooms will have water views, and the hiking trails of the Pagdanan mountain range, home to threatened wildlife such as the Philippine cockatoo, gray imperial pigeon and blue-naped parrot, are a short drive away.

Megaworld is building Paragua Coastown (left) along the coconut tree-lined (right) coastline of San Vicente, Palawan island in the Philippines.

“More than just sustainable tourism, our vision for Paragua Coastown is to be able to provide an opportunity to those who want to live the island life within a lush and sustainable landscape,” Tan says. To that end, he says Megaworld will incorporate solar and other renewable energy sources into its building design. There will be a waste-to-energy plant to supply electricity to the township as part of a new waste-management system and sewage-treatment center.

About 40% of Paragua Coastown’s land area has been earmarked for open (albeit landscaped) spaces, while a mangrove forest reserve in its boundaries will be left untouched. Megaworld also plans to plant thousands of trees on 100 hectares deforested by commercial logging, once a mainstay of the local economy, and upgrade the mostly dirt tracks used by San Vicente's 30,000 residents to a network of roads in and around the property.

Ana Margarita Lustre-Malijan, vice president at local hotelier and construction firmArlustre Group, believes such developments will be a huge boon for Palawan, bringing jobs and income to the island where about 15% of the population falls below the poverty line. It could also be the tipping point to improve accessibility to the area. There’s an airport in San Vicente, but Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific, two of the nation’s main airlines, don’t fly there. Getting to San Vicente means a 90-minute flight from Manila or Cebu to Puerto Princesa and a bumpy four-hour car ride across rugged terrain. Cebu Pacific CEO Michael Szucs tells Forbes Asia that the airline will consider flying to San Vicente once the Megaworld hotels are built.

Tourists visiting the Puerto Princesa underground river (top left), a Unesco World Heritage site, while a wild pig roams Coconut Beach in San Vicente. View of San Vicente's famed stretch of white-sand beach (right).

Besides attracting homegrown developers, Palawan has become a stopping point for international hospitality brands. “Palawan stands out as an attractive destination, blending cultural richness with natural landscapes,” Raj Menon, Marriott’s president for Asia Pacific excluding China, says by email. The U.S. group will add over 70 rooms this year to its recently opened 168-room Four Points by Sheraton on Sabang Beach, near Puerto Princesa’s underground river, to meet demand. American hotel chains Best Western and Wyndham Hotels’ Microtel have also established a presence on the island.

Megaworld has begun marketing the Paragua Coastown residential units, which will range from 32-square-meter studios to 106-square-meter two-bedroom suites, and expects them to generate some 2.3 billion pesos in sales. Doubling down on Palawan, Megaworld announced in December it would spend another 7 billion pesos to develop a mixed-use complex on a 6-hectare oceanfront site in Puerto Princesa. Named Baytown Palawan, the commercial, hotel and residential project is expected to take five years to complete. “Palawan has always been a hotspot for local and international tourists,” Tan says.

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International visitors to the Philippines have gradually returned but remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Palawan isn’t the Tans’ only tourism play. They are building resorts, retail space and convention facilities across the archipelago, including tourist hotspots Boracay, Cebu and Davao. Megaworld’s hospitality operations accounted for over 5% of the company’s 2023 revenue of 69.7 billion pesos, and the company expects the business will make up at least 10% of revenue by 2028.

Andrew Tan launched Megaworld in the late 1980s, pioneering the living concept of a city within a city in the Philippines. It now counts 24 townships (with an additional seven under construction) nationwide, part of his sprawling business empire under Alliance Global comprising a controlling interest in Emperador, owner of the Dalmore whisky and Fundador brandy brands, and a stake in the Philippine franchisee of McDonalds. Tan ranked No. 11 on the Philippines’ 50 Richest 2023 list with $2.4 billion net worth.

“Expanding our townships all over the Philippines will sustain our growth as a company and allow us to also diversify our offering in the real estate industry,” says son Kevin, who is also vice chairman and CEO of Alliance Global. “Through these developments, we can make a significant impact across economic sectors.”

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11,298 tourists visit Palawan amid eased travel rules

A total of 11,298 local and international tourists have arrived in Palawan since January, a report from the Provincial Tourism Promotions and Development Office (PTPDO) verified.

The statistical report was taken from Department of Tourism’s (DOT) data which stated that 10,655 local or domestic tourists while a total of 643 foreign tourists arrived in the province amid the travel bubble implemented since January.

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DOT also confirms that frequent destinations of these tourists were the towns of Brooke’s Point, Busuanga, Coron, Culion, El Nido, Narra, Quezon, San Vicente, Taytay and Balabac.

7,107 tourists arrived in January and 4,281 have arrived in February which composes the total 11,298 arrivals.

Rutchel Alcantara, Supervising Tourism Operations Office said that DOT has a new digital system called TourLista, where each tourists log their personal information, accommodation establishments. The new system is used by PTPDO to record the number of tourist arrivals in the province.

“As of now, ini-improve ng DOT and system na halos one year pa lang na ginagamit, dahil sab ago ito, bago pa lang din nag-gegenerate ng data kaya may mga dapat na isaayos pa. ‘Yun ang basis nang pag-generate ng tourist arrivals,” Alcantara said.

PTPDO is also encouraging tourists to only transact with DOT-accredited establishments in the province in able to record their stay and information for the digital documentation of DOT.

Meanwhile, towns who have officially opened their tourism doors includes El Nido, Coron, Busuanga, San Vicente, Taytay and Balabac who has a set of tourist spots and attractions which are under travel bubble.

PTPDO also announce that an S-PASS, vaccination card or certificate must be presented to DOT-accredited establishments by tourists before they check-in for their accommodation.

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