The World’s Best Island: Palawan Will Be the Next Boracay

▲The Palawan region of the Philippines has just been selected as the world’s best island. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Reported by Chen Zi-Yin / Taipei

The Philippines and Taiwan are separated only by the Bashi Channel, and tourism exchanges between the two have been frequent. Recently, the Palawan (Palawan) region of the Philippines was named the world’s best island by Condé Nast Traveler magazine, leading to a surge in interest and growing awareness among Taiwanese travelers. Yesterday (the 12th), the Philippine Department of Tourism’s Taiwan Office, together with Bernardo J.B. Mitra Sr., Director of the Philippine Manila Cultural Office, and hotel operators in Puerto Princesa in central Palawan, held an information and exchange briefing. Media and Taiwanese travel agencies were invited to attend. Director Leyas further stated, “Palawan will become a travel destination even more beloved by visitors than Boracay.”


▲The Philippine Department of Tourism’s Taiwan Office held an industry exchange event for Palawan. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Bernardo J.B. Mitra Sr., a native of Palawan and Director of the Philippine Manila Cultural Office, also noted that Palawan’s naturally beautiful and pristine landscapes are well worth exploring. Moreover, an increasing number of hotels and resorts that see potential in the area have been setting up in Puerto Princesa recently, so visitors won’t have to worry about accommodation. Director Leyas added that the Palawan archipelago’s top recommendation is the area around Puerto Princesa, which not only boasts pristine, beautiful beaches but also the Underground River Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The site is also one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Bernadette Wong, General Manager of Philippine Airlines’ Taiwan Branch, also announced that starting February 13th next year, Philippine Airlines will operate charter flights directly from Taipei to Puerto Princesa International Airport, bringing Taiwanese travelers even closer to this world’s best island.


▲The Underground River Park, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)