Jaw-dropping views, crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches… these are some of the main ingredients of a dream holiday.
But these far-flung holidays can often come with an expensive price tag.
Enter Palawan.
Dubbed the ‘Maldives of the Philippines’, the Southeast Asian hidden gem isn’t as well-known as the Maldives – but is very similar.
The island is home to natural wonder and Unesco World Heritage Site, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River – the longest underground river in Asia and the second longest in the world.
Palawan also boasts beautiful coral reefs and is a popular location for snorkelling and diving.
The nearby Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park is another Unesco World Heritage Site.
An expert from the Experience Travel Group told The Mirror: ‘Palawan has a unique combination of natural beauty, adventure, and affordability.
With jaw-dropping views of crystal clear waters and white, sandy beaches, anyone visiting Palawan could easily think they’re in the Maldives
Dubbed the ‘Maldives of the Philippines’, the Southeast Asian hidden gem isn’t as well known as the tropical holiday hotspot, but is very similar. Pictured: Maldivian island Rhasdoo
Palawan also boasts beautiful coral reefs and is a popular location for snorkelling and diving
‘Travellers can enjoy many of the same experiences they would in the Maldives, such as pristine beaches and turquoise waters, but at a fraction of the cost.
‘It’s becoming increasingly popular among travellers who want a tropical paradise experience without overspending.’
With much of the natural beauty found in the Maldives, Palawan is a strong alternative, and a trip there comes at a fraction of the cost.
A night at a hotel in the Philippine hidden gem can be bagged for around £50, depending on the area.
Meanwhile, many accommodation options in the Maldives are priced at around £300 to £400 per night.
The Experience Travel Group describes Palawan as a combination of ‘natural beauty, adventure, and affordability’.
Visitors are able to revel in the same beauty and adventures offered in the Maldives but for much less.
‘It’s becoming increasingly popular among travellers who want a tropical paradise experience without overspending,’ the expert said.
Palawan is a strong alternative to the Maldives – and a trip there comes at a fraction of the cost
A night at a hotel in the Philippine hidden gem can be bagged for around £50, depending on the area
Visitors are able to relish in the same beauty and adventures offered in the Maldives but for much less
Though Palawan doesn’t quite have everything the Maldives offers, like the famous overwater villas, it’s close enough.
Both experience similar temperatures in their hottest month, April, of high 20s to low 30s.
While accessing Palawan will usually require a connecting flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa or El Nido Airport, taking one to two hours.
Alternatively, there is the option to go by ferry which can take around 13 hours.
The Experience Travel Group describes Palawan as ‘an excellent choice’ for travellers wanting tropical luxury without breaking the bank.
They add the Southeast Asian location is a great option for all, including families, solo travellers and couples wanting to get away.
