CRISP. traveled to the Philippines to bring you the ultimate 2 Week guide to the Islands of the archipelagic country

With 7,641 islands, the Philippines has become a hotspot for adventure seekers and beach bums alike, but where to go from Manila airport we hear you cry?! Fear not, CRISP. has tried and tested some of the best spots to help you navigate one of the world’s largest archipelagos.

Where to start?

When booking your flight from the U.K to the Philippines look to arrive at Manila airport, it is by far the biggest airport in the Philippines offering the best connection options to get you around the mainland and islands (but more on that later). Set up alerts with Skyscanner or Jack’s Flight Club to snap up the best deals.

Whilst Manila is not the beach paradise we’ve seen on every blogger’s Instagram page, do not overlook this city. It is a thriving mecca for food and Philippino culture offering cosmopolitan areas like Little Tokyo and Manila Bay paired with delicious dining experiences at Ministry of Crab and Milkyway cafe.

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, Azumi Boutique Hotel (luxe but eco-friendly), is a world away from the corporate hotels sprawled across the city. For travelers on a budget, Lub D is a tried and tested destination by the CRISP. team! This is a Tokyo-inspired hostel offering private and shared dorms and boasting an impressive restaurant and cafe which overlooks the city.

Our top tip for when you arrive in Manila is to download the Grab ride-hailing app. This will allow you to travel around the city safely, easily and cheaply!

Where to go?

Whilst CRISP. didn’t have enough time to travel around over 7000 islands, we did shortlist our favourites to give you an idea of what to expect.

Cebu and Bohol

Again, we haven’t quite reached beach paradise but it is a good start, Cebu is easy to get to from Manila via car or bus, and from here you can catch a regular ferry from the port at Cebu (granted there isn’t a typhoon which is what happened to us.)

Stay in Murals Hostel for a cozy scandi-inspired environment and a cool co-working space. Enjoy their open lounge as you sip a glass of wine and play board games until the storm passes. Likewise, you can opt to stay in the very overstated Henry Hotel which boasts a unique experience in its (very) quirky four walls.

Catching the ferry from Cebu to Bohol is straightforward and once you’re there you can expect visits to the chocolate hills, caving, river-boating, jungle treks, paddle boarding, and wildlife spotting. Choose to stay in Eco Hotel Bohol and enjoy individual huts in the middle of stunning scenery for a unique and conscious lodging experience. To fuel your day of activities you can grab food at some of our favourite spots; Tamper Coffee & Brunch, Mosia Cafe, Tablea de Maria Clara, Food & Fables, Smoque Bistro.

Siquijor

Oceanjet operates the ferry that can transport you from Bohol to Siquijor, it leaves each day from Tagbilaran Port at 10:20 and takes just over an hour. Siquijor was one of our very favourite islands to visit.

Filled with white sandy beaches, waterfalls and ambience, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy island life.

If you’re after budget accommodation with breathtaking views of the sunset opt for Jungle of Peace – we enjoyed sipping on daily cocktails from the planty outdoor bar. There is also the stunning Ustory Bungalows which are located directly on the beach. Our top tip for when you arrive here is to rent a bike to easily make your way around this tiny island paradise.

With so many amazing bars and restaurants to choose from here, it was difficult to pick just a few. Make sure you check out; Monkey Business, Dagsa (the best place to eat a traditional Boodle Fight), Salamandas Restaurant, Twenty4, Dolce Amore.

El Nido

Whilst Palawan is one of the Philippine’s most touristy islands, it is still worth a visit for day trips to secluded beaches and giant lagoons. Take note that once arriving at the main airport on the island, there is a 6-hour drive from the airport to El Nido.

In true CRISP. style, we wanted to exhaust all of the accommodation options available for the duration of the trip, so this time we opted for Airbnb. There are plenty of stylish options for all kinds of travelers and budgets with hidden gems well-kept in the narrow little streets of El Nido.

With an abundance of stunning cafes, restaurants and bars you won’t be short of places to eat & drink. Make sure you pay a visit to CRISP. Mag’s very favourite Maremegmeg Beach Bar for smooth sunset DJ vibes or a dip in its sister property’s infinity pool (MBC El Nido). Watch the sun go down at Panorama Bar whilst sipping on cocktails or enjoy wholesome yoga & brunch from a real-life treehouse; The bird House.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture or relaxation, consider Philippines as your next tropical destination for 2020.