For the fifth time, the Philippines is once again named “Asia’s Leading Beach Destination” in the 2021 World Travel Awards. The country also remained as “Asia’s Leading Dive Destination,” since 2019.
The Philippines Won 2021 World Travel Awards Again
The Philippines did it again! Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat hopes that these awards will help boost the Philippines’ tourism sector.
“We are elated that the country’s pristine beaches and mesmerizing dive spots have once again been cited as the best in Asia by the prestigious 2021 World Travel Awards,” said Romulo-Puyat.
She adds that Asia’s top beach and dive destination country shares the said recognition with their tourism stakeholders. It also includes partner agencies, local government units, and all Filipinos. Romulo-Puyat is grateful to her fellow Filipinos because they help promote the country’s culture, products, and attractions.
Despite the current pandemic, Asia’s top beach destinations opened their doors to tourists. Local authorities never forget to keep the protocols in mind to keep everyone safe. The agency continues to discover possible locations to develop for diving spots.
Local top beach and diving destinations open for business
Top beach destinations in the country including Boracay (Aklan), Siargao (Surigao del Norte), El Nido and Amapulo (Palawan). These beautiful beach havens already accepted local tourists. Soon it will be ready to welcome foreign tourists as soon as international borders open.
Philippines’ top diving destinations include Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (Palawan), Anilao (Batangas), Malapascua and Moalboal (Cebu), Balicasag, Panglao, and Anda (Bohol), and Puerto Galera (Oriental Mindoro).
In Anilao, domestic tourists need to follow safety protocols because some areas are still under general community quarantine (GCQ) and Modified GCQ. They should also have a negative RT-PCR test result, medical clearance, proof of reservation, and a valid ID.
According to DOT, only MGCQ areas can only allow recreational diving. It doesn’t include Anilao because it’s still under GCQ. Other diving spots are dependent on local government unit restrictions or issuances.
Asia’s top beach and dive destinations
The Philippines boasts of many exotic beaches and breathtaking dive destinations. No wonder the 2021 World Travel Awards named again the country as Asia’s top beach and dive destination.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is the most popular diving spot for recreational divers and tourists. It has three major areas – Jessy Beazley Reef, North Atoll, and South Atoll. The reef itself is abundant in marine diversity and has a vast variety of large sea creatures, including manta rays, different shark species, and sea turtles.
Boracay is notable for its immaculate white beaches, blue waters, and exhilarating water activities. This tropical island attracts local and foreign tourists because of the one-of-a-kind nightlife experience.
Puerto Galera is a Spanish word, meaning “Port of the Galleons.” In 1973, UNESCO designated the area as Man and Biosphere Reserve. It’s an incredible spot for scuba diving and has the most diversified coral reef in Asia.
The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, distinguishes brands and organizations worldwide. It rates continents for their tourism, travel, and hospitality industries during its yearly convention ceremonies.
More world categories to win
The country is still vying for the World categories of the 28th World Travel Awards:
- World’s Leading Beach Destination 2021: Philippines
- World’s Leading Dive Destination 2021: Philippines
- World’s Leading Island Destination 2021: Siargao, Philippine
- World’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2021: Intramuros, Philippines
- World’s Leading Tourist Board 2021: Philippines, Department of Tourism
Voting is until October 25, 2021 midnight through https://www.worldtravelawards.com.
