PHILIPPINES

9. KALANGGAMAN ISLAND, LEYTE

Kalanggaman Island, in the province of Leyte, is a pictureperfect postcard come to life: azure water, soft sand and swaying palm trees. But in all its secluded glory, there’s still plenty to do. Enjoy the laid-back vibe by basking in the sun and wandering barefoot along the sandbar, before enjoying a seafood lunch. And don’t resist the urge to cool off in the warm seas with a spot of snorkelling, scuba diving or swimming. There’s a whole underwater world to be discovered.

10. SIQUIJOR, VISAYAS

The tiny island of Siquijor, in the Visayas region, is slowly becoming more popular, yet still retains its off-the-beaten-path charm. The Spanish dubbed it Isla del Fuego – Island of Fire – thanks to the fireflies that fill the night sky, and visitors will love the natural beauty here, especially the uncrowded and beautiful bays of Salagdoong beach and Paliton beach. But a trip to Siquijor is not complete without visiting Cambugahay waterfalls, a three-tiered beauty emanating from natural springs.

11. CAMIGUIN

Home to seven volcanoes, Camiguin Island is aptly known as the Island Born of Fire. Rising from years of volcanic activity, its dramatic landscape features sloping hills and towering peaks. But it also boasts islets with unspoiled beaches and cerulean waters, like the white-sand haven found in the Mantigue Island Nature Park. A four-hectare, protected marine sanctuary with a mini forest trail, the beach is divine, with clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling or diving.