Camiguin Island - Discover the Charm

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to Finding Utopia, your go-to newsletter for discovering how to travel the Philippines and beyond.

Here is what we have for you today.

• Camiguin Island - Discover the Charm

• Luxury Resort Pick of the Week: Aman-i-Khás, India

• The Pulse: Northern Samar's New Tourism Circuits

• The Pulse: Philippines Shines at Beijing Expo - Wins Best Diving Destination Title

Camiguin Island - Discover the Charm

Welcome to this week's edition of Finding Utopia! We're thrilled to bring you our latest blog post, published yesterday August 19, which shines a spotlight on the enchanting Camiguin Island, Philippines. Known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and laid-back atmosphere, Camiguin Island is a destination that promises a truly unforgettable experience.

Journey to Camiguin Island: The Island Born of Fire

Camiguin Island, often referred to as the "Island Born of Fire," is a small yet breathtaking island in the Philippines, renowned for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and volcanic heritage. With seven volcanoes dotting the landscape, the island offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Highlights of Camiguin Island

Majestic Volcanoes and Hot Springs

• Mount Hibok-Hibok: A must-see for adventure seekers, this active volcano offers challenging treks and rewarding views of the island from its summit.

• Ardent Hot Springs: Nestled at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok, these natural hot springs provide a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Historical Sites

• Sunken Cemetery: An iconic site that marks the burial ground submerged by volcanic eruptions in the 1870s. The large cross that rises from the sea serves as a solemn reminder of the island’s history.

• Old Spanish Church Ruins: Explore the remnants of the ancient church destroyed by a volcanic eruption, offering a glimpse into Camiguin’s rich past.

Pristine Beaches and Waterfalls

• White Island: A stunning sandbar just off the coast, perfect for a day of sunbathing, snorkeling, and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes.

• Katibawasan Falls: A towering waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offering a refreshing escape in nature’s embrace.

Culinary Delights

• Lanzones Festival: If you visit in October, don’t miss the Lanzones Festival, celebrating the island’s famous sweet lanzones fruit with parades, cultural performances, and street dancing.

• Local Cuisine: Enjoy local delicacies like pastel (sweet, filled buns) and freshly caught seafood, which are staples of Camiguin’s culinary offerings.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Camiguin Island is during the dry season from March to June, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

• Packing Essentials: Be sure to bring comfortable trekking shoes, swimwear, and sun protection to fully enjoy the island’s diverse landscapes.

• How to Get There: Camiguin is accessible via flights to Cagayan de Oro, followed by a ferry ride to the island. Detailed travel information is available on our blog.

Take Away

Camiguin Island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you're exploring its majestic volcanoes, relaxing in its hot springs, or immersing yourself in its history and culture, Camiguin promises a unique and memorable experience.

Read our full blog post here Camiguin Island (kgmresorts.com) to discover everything this captivating island has to offer.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

Luxury Resort Pick of the Week - Aman-i-Khás, India

Welcome to this week’s edition of Luxury Resort Pick of the Week! Our latest blog post published Thursday August 15t, which spotlights the luxurious Aman-i-Khás in India. Nestled on the edge of the Ranthambore National Park, this opulent retreat offers a one-of-a-kind blend of wildlife adventure and regal luxury.

Discover Aman-i-Khás: India’s Royal Wilderness Retreat

Aman-i-Khás is not just a resort; it’s an immersive experience that transports you to a world where luxury meets the wild. Located in Rajasthan, this exclusive resort comprises only ten lavish tents, ensuring a serene and intimate stay. Whether you’re on a quest to witness the majestic Bengal tigers in their natural habitat or seeking tranquility under the stars, Aman-i-Khás promises an unforgettable escape.

Highlights of Aman-i-Khás

Luxury Tented Accommodations

• Exquisite Tents: Inspired by Mughal hunting parties of the past, each tent at Aman-i-Khás is a blend of elegant design and modern comforts. With soaring canopies, plush furnishings, and spacious bathrooms, the tents offer a perfect sanctuary after a day of adventure.

• Private Lounges: Enjoy private lounging spaces that open up to stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, offering a perfect spot for relaxation or meditation.

Wildlife Safaris

• Ranthambore National Park: Embark on thrilling safaris into the heart of Ranthambore National Park. Led by expert guides, these safaris offer a chance to spot tigers, leopards, and other incredible wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Birdwatching and Nature Walks: For those who prefer a more tranquil connection with nature, guided birdwatching tours and nature walks reveal the rich biodiversity of the region.

Holistic Wellness

• Spa and Well-being: Indulge in holistic spa treatments that draw on India’s ancient wellness traditions. The resort offers massages, yoga sessions, and Ayurvedic therapies designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.

• Open-Air Dining: Savor delectable Indian and international cuisine in a unique open-air dining setting. With meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients, each dining experience at Aman-i-Khás is a celebration of flavor and ambiance.

Cultural Immersion

• Rajasthani Heritage: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The resort offers curated experiences, including visits to nearby forts, palaces, and villages, allowing you to explore the region’s history and traditions.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Aman-i-Khás and Ranthambore is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent.

• Packing Essentials: Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a good camera are must-haves to make the most of your adventure.

• How to Get There: Aman-i-Khás is accessible via Jaipur International Airport, followed by a scenic drive through the Rajasthani countryside. More detailed travel information is available on our blog.

Take Away

Aman-i-Khás is more than just a luxurious resort; it’s a gateway to an extraordinary experience that combines the thrill of the wild with the comfort of royal living. From its sumptuous, tented accommodations to its unparalleled wildlife safaris, Aman-i-Khás offers a journey into the heart of Rajasthan that will leave you enchanted.

Read our full blog post here Aman-i-Khás, India: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week (kgmresorts.com) to discover all that this extraordinary destination has to offer.

Thank you for being part of our community. We look forward to bringing you more exclusive travel insights in our next newsletter!

The Pulse: Discover Northern Samar's New Tourism Circuits

Exciting updates from Northern Samar, where two new tourism circuits have just been unveiled, adding to the province's growing list of must-visit destinations.

Explore Northern Samar's New Tourism Circuits

Northern Samar, already known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has introduced two new tourism circuits that promise to offer unique and immersive experiences for visitors. These new circuits—the Fun Farm Tour and the Seafood Tour—are designed to showcase the province's vibrant agricultural practices and exquisite seafood offerings.

The Fun Farm Tour

Dive into Northern Samar's agricultural heartland with the Fun Farm Tour, covering the towns of Mondragon, Silvino Lubos, San Roque, and Pambujan. This circuit offers a hands-on experience with garden-to-table food tasting, farming, and food processing tours. Visitors can even opt for homestays to fully immerse themselves in the local lifestyle.

The Seafood Tour

For seafood lovers, the Seafood Tour is a culinary adventure not to be missed. Explore the towns of San Jose and Rosario, renowned for their delicious mud crabs, fresh fish, and other seafood delicacies. The tour also includes opportunities for diving, fishing, and experiencing an ocean-to-table food tasting that highlights the best of Northern Samar's coastal bounty.

A Broader Vision for Tourism

These new circuits are part of Northern Samar's broader strategy to boost tourism and economic development under Governor Edwin Ongchuan. The province has already introduced several other circuits, including the Balicuatro Island hopping tour, the Lavezares and Biri eco-tour, the Catubig, Las Navas, and Laoang river cruise, and the Pacific tour. Each of these offers a unique way to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Northern Samar.

Why Northern Samar?

Northern Samar is quickly emerging as a prime diving destination in Eastern Visayas, thanks to its expansive seas, coastal wonders, and rich marine biodiversity. With 24 towns, most of which are coastal, Northern Samar offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery, making it a perfect destination for your next getaway.

Take Away

Northern Samar's new tourism circuits offer a fresh and exciting way to experience the province's natural and cultural treasures. Whether you're a foodie, an adventurer, or simply looking to relax in a beautiful setting, Northern Samar has something to offer. We encourage you to explore these new circuits and discover the hidden gems that make this province truly special.

Read our full feature here Northern Samar offers two new tourism circuits | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph) to uncover all the details about Northern Samar's latest tourism offerings.

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

The Pulse: Philippines Shines at Beijing Expo - Wins Best Diving Destination Title

The Philippines has once again been recognized as one of the world’s top dive destinations, winning the prestigious title of "Best Diving Destination" at the 2024 Diving Resort Travel (DRT) Show in Beijing. This is a remarkable achievement that underscores the country's position as a premier location for diving enthusiasts around the globe.

Philippines: A World-Class Diving Destination

The DRT Show, renowned as the largest and most effective dive exhibition platform in the region, attracts over 450,000 professional buyers and visitors from 65 countries each year. At this year’s event, the Philippines not only secured the title of "Best Diving Destination," but also won the "Best Tourism Promotion Partnership Award," further cementing its reputation in the global diving community.

Why the Philippines Stands Out

With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and diverse underwater landscapes, the Philippines is truly a diver’s paradise. The country’s dive spots, such as Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Apo Reef, and Anilao, are celebrated for their biodiversity and stunning coral formations. In 2023 alone, diving tourism contributed over PHP73 billion to the Philippine economy, doubling the revenue from the previous year.

Enhancing Dive Tourism

The Philippines is committed to further developing its dive tourism sector. The Department of Tourism (DOT) recently announced plans to establish five additional hyperbaric chambers in key dive destinations, including Puerto Galera, Boracay, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Camiguin. These new facilities will join the 15 existing hyperbaric chambers across the country, ensuring the safety and well-being of divers.

Join the Dive Adventure

Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting, there’s no better time to explore the underwater wonders of the Philippines. With 120 dive destinations already developed and audited by the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your skill level and interests.

Take Away

The recognition of the Philippines as the Best Diving Destination at the DRT Show is a testament to the country’s unparalleled beauty and commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. We encourage you to dive into the Philippines’ breathtaking underwater world and experience firsthand why it continues to win accolades worldwide.

Read more about this exciting achievement and explore the best dive spots in the Philippines in our full feature here. PH wins best diving destination title at Beijing expo | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)

Thank you for being part of our community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!