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Across the water to the west of the main island of Luzon, Palawan is another island group made up of more than 1,700 islands and islets.

It is truly the ‘last natural frontier’ of the entire archipelago. Remote jungles and rugged scenery tower over pristine beaches and some excellent diving reefs are protected by a strong commitment to ecotourism.

Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is the capital of the island and is reached by plane from Cebu and Manila. Centrally located, it is a good place to start exploring both the north and south of Palawan. Dos Palmas is the best resort in this area and is set on its own island just off the coast, surrounded by fantastic dive sites.

The Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and follows a network of pitch-black caves: it is thought to be the longest navigable tunnel in the world and is great fun to explore.

Diving and snorkeling

In the north of Palawan, the Calamian Islands are renowned for some of the best wreck diving in the world. However, non-divers are attracted by other atmospheric sights including the limestone cliffs of Coron Island that rise vertically out of the sea above beautiful coves. There are many good places to snorkel. Inland the stunningly beautiful Kayangan volcanic lake is surrounded by rock walls and is a delight to swimmers and divers alike.

Just outside Coron town, on the island of Busuanga, a natural hot spring is a great place to unwind after a busy day and offers a chance to mingle with the town’s people.

For those looking to explore further afield, the area offers excellent island-hopping and opportunities for solitude and snorkeling.