The Philippines is an archipelago comprising no less than 7,107 islands, whose waters range from turquoise to crystalline in hue and whose soft sands have turned the nation into a particularly coveted destination for luxury cruise liners. Indeed, sailing rather than flying is all the rage these days, with travelers seeking to immerse themselves fully in the magic and mystery of the islands of Asia. As notes, Asia appeals to travelers of all kinds: “Whether you prefer the tranquil beauty of a Buddhist temple or the colorful energy of a busy city street market, each cruise port of call is an exciting discovery of sights and sounds. “ The Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia, for instance, are famed for the wild, pristine nature of their beaches and their lush tropical scenery. China and Japan, meanwhile, are an excellent choice for culture vultures after some sightseeing, museum visits and shopping, and Thailand offers a blend of both types of experience. One of the top choices when it comes to de-stressing is the province of Palawan in the Philippines (home to the island of Coron, famed for its vertiginous cliffs and emotion-packed snorkeling and diving experiences ). Palawan is currently a hot spot for honeymooners the world over, since in addition to its natural splendor, accommodation is very reasonably priced and there are an array of resorts that may be officially four-starred, but which are actually close to five-star in terms of comfort, design and service. One of the best things about this province is its cleanliness and purity. Indeed, the newspapers are rife with news that World boxing champ, Manny Pacquiao, is planning on purchasing his own island here: “I like it here because there is a lot of green, unlike Manila, which is so crowded,” he recently told the press.

Before heading to Palawan, you will first have to sail to or land on the country’s capital, Manila: a city teeming with people, cars, buses and the traditional local ride known as a ‘jeepney’: an old-styled jeep bearing bright imagery and sometimes comical slogans. Manila is a great place to spend a night or two, since it contains amazing shopping offerings (at commercial centers like Greenbelt, in the heart of the city, boasting an unimaginable number of shops and restaurants). The Mall of Asia, meanwhile, about a half hour drive from the city itself, is the largest in the Philippines and the third largest in the world, measuring no less than 407,000m2. There are a host of markets in the city center as well, selling everything from gadgets to clothing and accessories at bargain prices. Make sure to try the incredible local cuisine (chicken adobo (marinated chicken), lechón (roast pig) and pansit (a noodle dish bearing a blend of meat and vegetables) are just a few dishes to try. For desert, try the halo-halo: a unique dessert comprising a host of local fruits and ice-cream.

Culture vultures cannot visit Manila without contacting Carlos Celdrán – a local celebrity who takes guests on strolls around historically significant areas of Manila, including Intramuros, Fort Santiago and San Luis (many of these bear the inimitable stamp of Spanish architecture, since the Philippines was once colonized by Spain). Celdran calls his tour a mix of “stand up comedy, performance art and melodrama in the guise of a walking tour.”

After taking in the city sites with Carlos, my traveling companion and I took a domestic flight to Palawan; from there, we were took a jeepney ride and then a boat ride on a charming wooden vessel known as a banca. We soon landed at the shore of what we would call home for five days: El Rio y Mar Resort. We stayed at our very own villa, whose interiors were graced by richly dark wooden flooring, high ceilings, beautiful King-sized beds and the softest cotton sheets imaginable. The staff would wait patiently for us in the morning and as soon as we headed off for the day’s adventures, they would quietly spruce the room up, ensuring everything was perfect and the minibar fully stocked. From the ample terrace at night time, it was easy to lose oneself gazing at the bright stars while on the beach itself, a hammock swayed between two ancient palm trees, and all about was quiet. It seemed like we were always alone, since there is ample distance between each villa and the staff is friendly yet very discrete.

By day, Nature takes the center stage, since there is not much by way of shopping or gastronomy on the peaceful island. On our first day, we canoed through a complex labyrinth of mangroves, nearly losing our hotel and feeling ever so grateful when we finally made it home. The highlight of our stay in Coron was undoubtedly the snorkeling experience; we took a banca ride to a host of to hidden bays, flanked by lofty cliffs that pierced the sky, where we snorkeled, amazed at the rapidity of colorful schools of fish swishing by and large turtles that seemed oblivious to our presence. After a hearty lunch, we then sailed off to another splendor: Coron’s hot springs, featuring an array of different natural pools which vary in temperature, depth and size.

Coron is the ideal place to de-stress and reconnect with Nature, since its magic is undoubtedly its breathtaking beauty and serenity. Those after a party to remember will prefer livelier islands like wind surfing haven, Boracay, but as far as romance is concerned, Coron is no less than a honeymooners’ paradise.

Today's edition was offered by a special travel writer: Ms. Susie Phelps