Travel story: Liza's tropical journey to the Philippines
Discover Liza's tropical adventure in the Philippines
When you think of the Philippines, you picture a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, crystal-clear water and loads of palm trees, right? I couldn't resist experiencing it for myself! After recently trying diving for the first time, I saw the perfect opportunity to get my PADI in the Philippines. Honestly, there aren't many better places to dive.
The start of my journey
The first part of my trip was a 13-day group adventure, the Philippines Island Explorer. This trip starts in Manila, which is often the starting point for journeys around the Philippines. Manila isn't particularly remarkable, so after resting from the long flight, we headed straight to Moalboal. On the way from Cebu to Moalboal, we passed beautiful waterfalls and stopped for a swim and to soak in the views.
In Moalboal, we went canyoning - swimming, climbing and jumping through waterfalls. Super cool and full of adventure! We also snorkelled with huge schools of sardines: the Sardine Run. And, of course, there was time to chill by the beach or pool.
Canyoneering tour
The highlight of my trip
The next stop was another snorkelling hotspot, and in Coron we made the most of it. After some time in this charming town, it was time for the absolute highlight: the Boat Expedition! This is a 3-day boat trip from Coron to El Nido, cruising past stunning beaches and deserted islands. Incredible places to snorkel, islands where your group is the only one there, sleeping in wooden huts right on the sand, amazing starry skies and loads of good times! It's adventurous - think basic accommodation and few facilities, but that's what makes it so much more exciting. You spend lots of time on and in the water and visit some truly special spots. In a word: WOW!
Coron to El Nido boat expedition
Time to say goodbye to the group...
The boat expedition ends in lively, buzzing El Nido. There were still some cool things left to do here. We did a canopy walk, climbing ladders and rocks for a panoramic view over the island. We also toured around in a Jeepney (colourful Filipino buses converted from Jeeps) to see more of the area. After a fun farewell dinner, some dancing and cocktails, it was time to say goodbye to the group. But luckily, my time in the Philippines wasn't over yet!
Liza in the Philippines
Luckily, my trip wasn't over yet!
From El Nido, I travelled on to Port Barton for some chilled days at the beach. Then I flew to Dumaguete on Dauin island. Here, I set out to get my Open Water diving certificate! The dive school is super laid-back and has a great vibe. It's a quiet island, so diving was the main focus. After the first sessions in the pool, we headed out to the sea and spotted turtles on our very first dive! So special. The coral and underwater life are amazing there - I was honestly blown away.
After finishing the diving course and getting my Open Water, I did a day trip to Apo Island with the dive school. The diving here is absolutely stunning! You swim along a massive coral wall, and everywhere you look there's something incredible to see. A truly epic experience.
PADI diving course
The last stop of my journey
After diving, I took a boat to another island near Dauin: Siquijor. I had a few more days to explore and relax. Waterfalls, beautiful beaches, cliffs to jump from into the water and cool places to eat. I could easily have stayed longer! But I can't complain - I had an amazing trip and enjoyed every bit of it.
Sunset in the Philippines
Need help planning your trip to Asia?
Our travel experts can help you refine your ideas, pick the right destinations and plan your trip from start to finish.
Related trips
Need more inspiration? We have similar trips to the one you just saw.
New on the KILROY travel blog
Looking for travel inspiration? Discover our travel stories, handy guides and tips for your next trip. Read the latest blogs on the KILROY travel blog.
Showing 6 / 35 results