[top photo: A view of the Caramoan Peninsula, located in the Philippines.]
By Cheryl Tan
SURVIVOR SHOT HERE THREE TIMES
Caramoan Peninsula, Philippines
The south-eastern islands of the Caramoan Peninsula, 318km from Manila, is so gorgeous that it has been chosen thrice as the location for the French, Israeli and Bulgarian versions of the reality television show Survivor.
Mr Roger Reyes, owner of Villa Juliana Inn at Caramoan, says: "The natural rock formations are beautiful. Caramoan is a unique place."
He adds that the waters are clear blue, and the sand pristine-white because it has been "cleaned by the ocean".
But the 65-year-old Caramoan native says tourism on the island is still in its infancy.
So if you are interested in snorkelling and diving, bring your own gear as rental of such equipment is currently not available. However, there are boats to take you to explore the islands in the peninsula.
Matukad Island is full of sharp and layered rock formations while the mysterious Tayak Island has a lagoon that sits smack in the middle of the island.
If you plan to visit Caramoan Town to view the potentially active Mount Isarog, bear in mind that shops close at 5pm.
Where to stay: Villa Juliana Inn, which offers air-conditioned rooms with mountain views (from 750 pesos or $23 a person). Television and private showers are available. La Casa Roa Hostel has homey rooms with air-conditioning (from 700 pesos) and good food.
Getting there: Singapore Airlines flies direct ($440) to Manila, where you take a Philippine Airlines domestic transfer (from $76.50) to Naga City. At Naga City Central Bus Terminal, take a 11/2-hour van shuttle (75 pesos) or two-hour jeepney ride (60 pesos) to Sabang port. Finally, a two-hour boat ride (100 pesos) will take you to Guijalo port at Caramoan.
Pay: About $590.50 a person
Palawan, Philippines
Sunken wrecks of warships and merchant vessels which date back to World War II line the seabed, making this destination popular with avid divers.
The lush mountainous and coral- fringed islands are located 586km southwest from Manila.
Puerto Princesa City is the capital of Palawan but the beautiful northern Palawan island of El Nido is more popular, says Philippines Tourism Board marketing officer Pauline Lazaro.
The 48-year-old says El Nido has caves to explore and rock cliffs to see. In the waters, travellers can go kayaking and diving to see dugongs.
Nearby islands in the Bacuit Archipelago are home to a cluster of fishermen and several restaurants offering cheap and good seafood.
Where to stay: El Nido Lagen Island has luxurious water cottages on stilts. Rates start from 14,000 pesos a person, twin share.
Dolarog Beach Resort has cottages with prices starting from 3,200 pesos a person, twin share. Rooms have great views of the Bacuit archipelago.
Getting there: Take a Singapore Airlines flight to Manila followed by a 11/2-hour Island Transvoyager (ITI) seaplane (7,600 pesos, one way) to El Nido Lio Airport.
