Top winter destinations in the Philippines

For those people who dread the coming of winter, with its dark nights and cold weather, the winter getaway has for many years been the remedy to those winter blues. This winter is seeing not only a drop in the cost of fuel due to a drop in oil prices, but also a massive increase in competition for passengers between travel operators. The global financial downturn has reduced passenger numbers as household budgets become stretched, and travel operators are keen to make sure those who do travel, travel with them. Both of these factors will see some great deals on offer for winter travellers. Here are a few Philippine destinations that could put a little sunshine into your life:

Boracay. One of the 7,107 islands in the Philippine archipelago, a country which experiences a warm ‘cold season’ between December and February (one half of the encompassing dry season. The ‘hot season’ lasts from March to May). Boracay island is a small place, being only 7 kilometres long and as narrow as 1 kilometre wide in places. The greatest attraction is the massive 4 kilometre long White Beach, famous for its fine, white sand. Boracay also boasts dozens of smaller beaches and coves, as well as 24 official dive sites, whose calm waters are an especially good place to learn to dive.

Palawan. A province, named after the largest island Palawan, which comprises 1,780 islands in total. Known for its distinctive wildlife, which has more in common with Borneo than the rest of the Philippines, it is extremely diverse. The islands are mountainous, and covered in unspoilt virgin forests in many places. Jungle trekking is one of the top activities here, and the area in general is known as an outdoor sports haven. Palawan is home to some of the best dive sites in all of Asia.

Manila. The capital, which is often overlooked as a destination in its own right, with travellers flying into here only to move straight on to other parts of the country. The nightlife is fantastically vibrant, the shopping malls are some of the biggest in Asia, and people famed for their easy-going charm. Definitely worth a look.

From Canada, Manila is the best port of entry. Air Canada and Cathay Pacific are just some of the major airlines who fly direct. Try searching on cheapflights.ca, the travel search engine, to find the best airline tickets for you, whether you are looking for cheap prices or convenient luxury.

Prices and products are correct at the time of writing (30.11.08) and may be changed at the discretion of the provider.

Philippine Beaches and Island Beach Resorts
Camiguin, Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, Davao, Palawan, Puerto Galera, Siargao