Field Notes are firsthand travel recommendations for and by our ECT Clubhouse members. Get the lowdown on destinations across the globe from travelers and locals alike. This week, Silvana B., shares her highlights from the Philippines.

Hi all!! I recently came back from 10 incredible days in the Philippines and wanted to share a couple of insights in case that helps anyone .

Stay

Marina del Sol Resort - Secluded, surrounded by nature, this bayfront boutique hotel with villas overlooking the sea was perfect for our last two days, especially because we had it all to ourselves. Everything we did, was taken care of by them. 

We rented a big boat for the whole group and did daytrips both days. They brought towels, snorkel equipment, coolers with ice and water, and a crew was waiting at the island ready to prepare fresh lunch for us each day. We only took snacks and beers. The service was absolutely amazing, I would definitely go back.

Drink

Caffe Pocofino - For a coffee, snack or even a drink in the afternoon. Do try the Canella Latte!  

Do

Black Island - This was by far my favorite. It’s a beautiful island, that impresses you as you approach it, with its black rock formations and palm trees, contrasted by white sand and crystal-clear waters. We spent the morning here, visited a cave, spotted some monitor lizards, and did some snorkeling around the reef. 

Also included in her notes: In Manila, “a nice little speakeasy found inside a convenience store,” one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world that’s heated by an underground volcano, a tiny island surrounded by crystal-clear water, an island that’s best for “incredible” snorkelling.

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