Filipinos are known for their hospitality, and it is once again recognized on the international stage, as four of our own islands topped Travel + Leisure‘s The World’s Friendliest Islands. Topping the list are Palawan, Cebu, Luzon, and Boracay.
According to the article written by Jess McHugh, “While the politics of the nation have grown ever-more volatile, the people of the islands remain friendly to visitors exploring their scenic home. For many travelers, it’s especially helpful that English is one of the official languages of the Philippines, and that islanders are so welcoming of tourists.”
Check out his description of our islands below:
No. 4 Boracay, Philippines
Settle in at a spa or go diving for shipwrecks at this small island, which is just as beloved for its welcoming people as it is for its undeniable beauty.
No. 3 Luzon, Philippines
Luzon is the largest island of the Philippines, home both to coral reefs as well as the capital of the country, Manila. The island is also extremely diverse, making it a dynamic destination for travelers seeking a rich cultural experience.
No. 2 Cebu, Philippines
Cebu is a former Spanish colony, and people still travel to see the remaining architecture, Of course, the helpful locals are one of the island’s greatest qualities.
No. 1 Palawan, Philippines
“People are very welcoming, respectful, and friendly,” said one thrilled T+L reader about their experience in Palawan. The island’s green-and-turquoise lagoons have long put it on the bucket lists of travelers around the world, and this year it is also the world’s most convivial island destination.
The World’s Best Islands is part of a series called The World’s Best Awards, where readers rank “travel experiences across the globe, evaluating everything from cruise lines and airports to resorts, cities, and hotels.” The magazine opened the voting from November 2, 2015 to February 29, 2016. The World’s Friendliest Islands list was published on April 2, 2017.
The rest of the islands are Waiheke, New Zealand (5), Ischia, Italy (6), Tasmania, Australia (7), Fiji Islands (8), Bali, Indonesia (9), Great Barrier Reef Islands (10), Moorea (11), Paros, Greece (12), Bora Bora (13), Exhumas, Bahamas (14), and Caye Caulker, Belize (15).
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