Dotting the Pacific Ocean in the Micronesia region, Palau is an archipelago comprised of over 300 islands. This tropical paradise is known for its rich cultural heritage, incredible natural wonders and its amazing beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy the incredible uncrowded and pristine beaches, explore the surreal Jellyfish Lake and visit the fascinating museums in Koror, Palau’s largest town. Palau is a world-class destination offering the opportunity to discover ancient emerald forests, dive through magical waters to find exceptional dive sites, and soak up the ample unspoilt beauty. Other popular activities include: kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, hiking, and fishing.
Situated within the Palau Archipelago, the island of Koror is home to the eponymous city of Koror. It serves as the transport, economic and commercial centre of the island. Visitors can look forward to spending lazy days on pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waters, or for the more adventurous, exploring the mountains and ancient basalt monoliths of Badrulchau. Other highlights include: sampling local cuisine at an array of inviting restaurants and cafes, visiting the collection of interesting museums and viewing a variety of traditional landmarks and monuments that dot the city streets. It also provides an excellent base from which to explore the scenic surrounds including island-hopping to neighbouring islands such as the beautiful Malakal and Ngerkebesang islands. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Rock Islands archipelago, just a short boat ride away.
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With over 7000 idyllic islands, some of the world’s best scuba diving and surfing, a rich and diverse cultural history as well as some of the world’s most famously friendly locals, it is rather surprising that the Philippines remains a relatively undiscovered holiday destination. This vast archipelago is characterised by lush, jungle-clad mountains, exquisite beaches and crystal clear waters. Culturally inclined visitors can explore myriad mystical tribal villages, ancient rice terraces, and crumbling Spanish churches while food lovers can indulge in the renowned Filipino cuisine, which is an eclectic mix of culinary ideas borrowed from the varied cultures that have influenced the country: Malays, Polynesians, Chinese, Spanish and of course the warm and welcoming native islanders. Whether you are keen laze about in the sun, get involved in some adventurous watersports, or get in touch with your inner culture vulture, this remarkable archipelago has so many varied islands to offer that you should have no trouble finding your own little piece of paradise.
If you are a fan of big bustling cities, you will almost certainly fall in love with Manila. As the capital of the Philippines, the city is sprawling, chaotic, and culturally complicated, with a colourful multi-cultural heritage and a lively nightlife. Manila is a destination best suited for energetic travellers who enjoy discovering heritage sights, getting some retail therapy in glitzy shopping malls and partying their nights away in the city's infamous go-go clubs and wild late-night hotspots. Culture vultures and history lovers can enjoy the city’s diverse museums such as the National Museum of the Filipino People and the Ayala Museum. Explore the medieval walled enclave of Intramuros full of historic attractions, take a guided tour of the lavish Malacanang Palace, and visit San Agustin, Manila's oldest stone church. If you look beneath its rough gritty exterior, Manila is a treasure trove of cultural, historical delights just waiting to be discovered.
Malapascua’s white beaches, tranquil turquoise waters and verdant tropical vegetation are alone enough to lure many travellers to the island, but it is best known for its scuba diving - specifically diving with thresher sharks. These sharks are not aggressive to humans, and it is possible to dive incredibly close to them. But threshers aren’t all there is to see: Malapascua’s waters are a hub of biodiversity that includes grey reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, devil rays, scorpionfish, lionfish, octopus, moray eels and many more marine species. Other island activities include taking boat cruises around the surrounding islets, windsurfing, sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying spectacular sunset views.
