More favorite ‘secret’ summer destinations
From El Nido in Palawan to the Castello d Casole in Tuscany, the list goes on
“MY PERSONAL favorite destination is not really a secret one because it’s quite wellknown. It’s the good old Miniloc Resort of El Nido because it’s what I would consider almost perfect. You live in a water cottage or a room by the beach. There’s a cove in front of you where you have a white sand beach and the bottom slopes gradually— perfect for swimming. Then at the edge of the resort’s wooden jetty, you can snorkel with jacks. Now how many places in the world can you have such things literally in front of your cottage? Then of course, there are other options beyond the resort. There’s kayaking, cave exploration, snorkeling, and diving. Also, when you cruise around the nearby islands, everything is still pristine. You barely see any human habitation or bare patches. Your banca just skims over clear water that changes from turquoise to mineral water-clear. A sea breeze blows in your face and you pass island after island, each with its own small, beautiful cove. Really, how good does it get?
“For a guest, service at El Nido Resort is quite good. On a higher level, I am proud that El Nido Resort has garnered so many prestigious awards, including ‘One of the Best Green Resorts’ from Condé Nast Traveler magazine a few years back. It’s sad, though, that most Filipinos think anything that is abroad is always better. So I always talk about how great our own attractions are. ”— publisher and editor in chief, Mabuhay Magazine
Jun Ventura,
“They’re not so secret anymore, but here’s my list: Pacita Fundacion in Batanes and Calicoan Surf Camp in Samar, for peace and tranquility. Bali, not so much for the beach, but for the vibe, people and culture. Nice to walk around with a beer in hand. Lastly, Bangkok and Singapore for some retail therapy.”
Unilever executive chef
—Joanne Limoanco,
“El Nido Resort in Palawan for us. Still one of the best untouched beauties locally. This is no secret, though.”—
Princess
Pilarta,
Bistro Ravioli