The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
This coming hot summer, well-known Philippine beaches will be swarmed by local and international tourists. Some though want the serene quiet time while getting sand between the toes, exploring secrets of these tourist spots. Whether you’re just stopping over for a quick visit to the capital or looking for adventure in unique islands, consider these local hidden gems that shine all summer long for your much-needed vacation.
1. Kalanggaman Island
If you’re in Cebu or Tacloban, visit Kalanggaman Island, located in Palompon, Leyte with just a short boat ride from various ports. Opposite its famous counterparts of lush palm trees, powdery beaches, and the clearest of waters, this island does not have any fancy resorts and only has one sari-sari store where you can get some necessities. Local tours are available for arrangement and are only allowing about 500 tourists daily, the island is uninhabited and allows beach camping, and some water activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
2. Canigao Island
Hidden in the valleys of Matalom, Leyte, this island is frequented by locals. Surrounded by the finest white powder sand, this undeveloped island boasts its virgin waters where marine wildlife is still very much thriving. You can spot sharks, fishes, and vivid coral reefs when you go snorkeling, and even some wild monkeys on land too! Don’t step foot on Canigao Island thinking of 5-star resorts or full-serviced buffets. This is an affordable local destination to explore in the country, armed with an island market (where you can try exotic fresh seafood dishes) and cottages where you can rest, all just a short boat ride away west of Matalom.
3. Sagada, Mountain Province
The Cordillera Mountain Province is a great way to beat the heat and the swarms of beachgoers this summer. Sagada province is a great place to start your discovery of the varied wonders of the Philippines. From the famed Sugong Hanging Coffins to the Sumaguing Caves, the rich cultural background is abundant in this part of Northern Luzon. Best pick is Blue Soil, locally known as Kaman Utek to revel in the thousand-year-old blue limestone grounds whose color is caused by its high copper sulfate content. Visit also Marlboro Hills at sunrise to watch the clouds roll over the mountainous province for a true bucket list experience.
4. Batanes, Cagayan Valley
Batanes is known as the “Home of the Winds”, another destination to beat the summer heat in the city. This province deserves more recognition for more than just its beaches. If you’re looking for mind-blowing, earth-shattering, only-man-in-the-world type of views, Racuh-a-Payaman or more commonly known as Marlboro Country is for you. There are also Wes Anderson-esque lighthouses littered all over the place and a never-ending array of rolling hills that go into the horizon. You’ll never get tired of the views and would never get enough of this province’s blessed beauty.
5. Samal Island
Known as the largest resort city in the country, Samal Island is site of the Pearl Farm Resort , but it also boasts more than its luxury accommodations. Hagimit Falls is a waterfall on an island known for its beaches. Wade in the shallow waters and stare in awe at the majestic background of nature. In Monfront Bat Sanctuary, witness the fruit-eating bats in their natural habitat while they’re sleeping in the daytime. You can go scuba diving around several local diving spots where World War II ships have sunk, giving way to winding reefs full of marine life.