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The Philippines Make a Big Summer Splash
By Kelli Luu | 03 Jun, 2025

Island hopping, blue lagoons and fun thrift finds make the Philippines the hot new travel destination for the summer.


The Philippines is the blueprint of an island paradise and if she isn’t on your travel bucket list this summer, you’ll be missing out. 

Pack your bags and get ready to step into a real-life postcard filled with island hopping, crystal clear water, and delicious bites. 

Bacuit Bay in El Nido is a showstopper amongst the 7,000 islands. You’ll be finding secret lagoons and be amazed at the giant limestone cliffs, all while floating along the water that looks like it’s been photoshopped. 

Be kind to the stray dogs that may approach you. They’re common around the islands and want to take a splash in the water, just like you. 

After spending the day swimming and kayaking, you can head over to the nearby fruit stands where you’ll find tropical fruit galore. Pineapples, mangos, guava, all ripe and    as sweet as candy. 

Or if you’re hungry, stop at an Instagram worthy lunch cafe for a meal that will have your tastebuds jumping and look great on your feed. 

At the heart of Palawan is Puerto Princesa. Just south of El Nido and the aura completely shifts. Suddenly, you’re surrounded by a jungle and you can clearly hear all the sounds of nature. 

Here, you’ll find the Cabayugan River and it is definitely worth seeing as it flows through an underground cave. This is perfect for anyone feeling adventurous and isn’t afraid for a side of chills. 

For a beautiful snorkeling activity, Honda Bay is not too far and it is a haven for vibrant coral reefs and those white sand beaches you see on your Pinterest board. 

The island of Tiniguiban is a hidden gem in Puerto Princesa. It may not be on every tourist’s must-see list in the Philippines, but the community spirit here is what makes this island different. 

Tucked away, Tiniguiban is covered in lush greenery with quiet, local neighborhoods and you can hop on a trolley to travel through the windy roads. 

After soaking up the tropics in Puerto Princesa, you can take a flight back to the mainland and head to Pampanga to taste the best food in the Philippines. 

Known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, Pampanga welcomes you to feast. You can pick up a quick meal from a nearby street vendor or sit down in a gorgeous restaurant for an epic culinary experience. 

Also on the mainland, approximately 4810 feet above mean sea level is The Summer Capital, Baguio City. With the city’s cool climate, you can spend the entire day exploring the famous strawberry farms and then thrift for unique pieces at the Baguio night market. 

Every destination in the Philippines has its own aura, one that not every country can recreate. This is your sign to stop romanticizing and start booking because the Philippines is waiting with blue lagoons, sunshine, and a trip of a lifetime.

After soaking up the tropics in Puerto Princesa, you can take a flight back to the mainland and head to Pampanga to taste the best food in the Philippines.

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