Honeymoons are all about intimacy and seclusion. And when it comes to these standards, nowhere else in the world brings that solitude like the Philippines with its more than 7,000 islands to choose from! Whether you want exotic and far-flung, a seaside splendor to watch the sunset, or want budget-friendly options, Balikbayan Magazine has you covered.
01 Siargao
Siargao is a teardrop-shaped island located in the province of Surigao del Norte in Mindanao. Being an archipelago of around 100 islands, Siargao has a lot to offer. But for honeymooners, it is recommended that you both take a moment off to stay at the Naked Island. True to its name, the island has nothing except white sand, patches of grass and plants and just a hut fit for two! Clear waters lure its visitors to take a refreshing dip. If feeling more adventurous, you can do surfing. As they say, it’s never Siargao without surfing!
02 Camiguin
Camiguin is considered a hidden gem of Mindanao. It may be the smallest province in the country but it is overflowing with untouched nature’s bounty and a colorful cultural heritage. Camiguin houses the lush forest reserves called the Mount Hibok-Hibok Protected Landscape. Go spring hopping at Ardent Hibok-Hibok Spring Resort, Sto. Nino Cold Spring and Bura Soda Pool or take a refreshing dip at the Mantigue Island or Katibawasan Falls. Finally, don’t forget to taste their sweet lanzones! In fact, they have a lanzones festival every October. Accommodations here are relatively cheap with hotels as low as Php1,000 per night.
03 Batanes
If you plan to have your wedding ceremony at Tukon Church, might as well stay at Batanes — the northernmost and smallest province in the country — for a couple of days for your honeymoon. Interesting trivia about Batanes includes the fact that its residents are the nicest and most trustworthy people you’ll ever meet in your travels. The number of “honesty” stores is proof of these people’s honesty and trustworthiness. When choosing what to eat, beef is cheaper than pork since Batanes has vast grasslands that cattle readily feed on.
04 Siquijor
Siquijor is synonymous with mystery and magic. Aside from its love potions and sorcery, Siquijor offers natural wonders that can leave you bewitched. Whatever suits a couple’s fancy, there are a multitude of adventures to choose from: either take a dip at Cambugahay Falls, have a foot spa session under Lazi’s 400-year-old Balete tree, watch the sunset at Tubod Beach, or if you are up to a more daring experience, go visit the cold Cantabon Cave.
05 Bohol
Bohol is a suitable getaway destination for those with a shoestring budget. You get more than what you pay for because of its laid-back natural wonders. One of the best recommendations is to stay at a hotel with a view of the Chocolate Hills — nothing could be sweeter than cozying up with your spouse overlooking the majestic landmark.
