Travel & Hospitality Awards | Asia 2021 | www.thawards.com

Busuanga
The Hidden Gem
of the Philippines
If you’re looking for an alternative destination in the Philippines,
one that is yet to be exposed to mass tourism, then look no
further than Busuanga Island located in the northern part of the
Palawan Province. This beautiful island is home to some stunning
natural scenery, beautiful beaches, and is usually the ideal base
for adventure activities in the region. Its undeveloped structure
adds to the feeling of adventure and although it’s only really
being “discovered” by travellers now its history stretches back
thousands of years.
Getting to Busuanga isn’t as challenging as one might expect.
There are regular flights from Manila to Francisco B Reyes Airport,
the journey takes about an hour. From the airport it takes roughly
50 minutes to the town of Coron. The ferry from Manila is another
option although it does involve an overnight trip on board. Getting
around for most tourists means riding on Jeepneys which are old
jeeps and vans converted into and used as small buses.
Once you’re on the Island you’re all
set for adventures galore. The island
is a great place for diving, it was once
occupied by Japan who were forced
out by the USA, so there are plenty
Japanese World War II shipwrecks
to visit. Other diving sites include
incredible coral reefs and a wide array
of sea life. We recommend hiking
especially to the top of Mt Tapyas at
sunrise and sunset. Horseback riding,
mountain biking, fishing, watersports,
and jungle treks are also very popular.
For something a little more relaxing
we suggest you visit the Maquinit Hot
Springs, located a few minutes outside
of Coron town these springs are the
perfect place to sit back, enjoy a drink,
and take in the stunning scenery.
In terms of accommodation, you
couldn’t do much better than Travel and
Hospitality Award winner, La Estancia
Busuanga, profiled on in depth on the
next page.
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