9-Nights Best of Philippines Island Hopping: Cebu, El Nido & Boracay

Boracay

Boracay is a small island paradise located in Malay, Philippines. Winning awards for best island in the world, Boracay is famous for being one of the top destinations for relaxation. Boracay offers idyllic beaches, spas, vibrant nightlife and some of the best snorkeling in the world.

El Nido

El Nido is a coastal settlement of Palawan, Philippines that consists of 45 islands and islets also known as the Bacuit Archipelago. The pristine warm beaches and clear waters is a short walk away from the jungle and main town Bacuit Bay. El Nido which also means, “The Nest” has been inhabited by humans as early as 22,000 years revealing fossils and burial sites with imprints from the Late Neolithic Age. Since 1225CE, the Chinese have been trading with the residents of El Nido in search of the edible birds’ nest that engraved the island’s history and name. El Nido is presently a large marine sanctuary protected by the government preserving its flora, fauna, and natural beauty. Travelers can go island hopping in the Bacuit Archipelago, or spot dugongs, turtles, manta rays, coral reefs, and gentle whale sharks. Travelers can also explore the 12,000 year old Ille Cave, dive their way beneath water trenches to reach the “Secret Beach” not frequently visited by outsiders, or kayak through a cathedral-like cavern and bird watch the “nest gatherers.”

Cebu

On April 8, 1521 Ferdinand Magellan landed in Cebu and opened a trade route that is still followed today. The cross Magellan planted here still stands and has become one of Cebu's most recognized and famous landmarks. Colonized by Spain in the 16th century, many houses, churches and municipal buildings still stand from that era. Aside from historical landmarks, the area is home to beautiful beaches that are perfect for snorkeling, diving and windsurfing.