Top 10 Surfing Destinations in the Philippines!

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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.

• Top 10 Surfing Destinations in the Philippines!

• Luxury Resort Pick of the Week: Amantaka Luang Prabang, Laos

• The Pulse: Biliran Welcomes Australian Cruise Ship for Scenic Island Visits!

• The Pulse: A Celebration of Filipino Comfort Food at the Hotel and Restaurant Tourism (HRT) Event

Top 10 Surfing Destinations in the Philippines!

Welcome to this week’s edition of Finding Utopia! Our blog post published on October 16, highlighting the Top 10 Surfing Destinations in the Philippines. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking to ride your first wave, the Philippines offers an incredible selection of world-class surf spots that cater to all skill levels.

Explore the Best Surfing Destinations in the Philippines

From the iconic shores of Siargao to hidden gems along the country's vast coastline, the Philippines has become a paradise for surfing enthusiasts. Here’s a sneak peek into the best surfing locations across the archipelago:

• 1. Cloud 9, Siargao: Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines," Cloud 9 is a world-famous spot that draws surfers from all over the globe. Its powerful right-hand reef break is perfect for advanced surfers, but there are plenty of beginner-friendly waves nearby.

• 2. Baler, Aurora: The birthplace of Philippine surfing, Baler is perfect for beginners and pros alike. With consistent waves all year round, Baler’s Sabang Beach offers the ideal environment for new surfers to learn the ropes, while Cemento Beach challenges the more experienced riders.

• 3. San Juan, La Union: Has become a go-to spot for surfers in Luzon, offering a laid-back atmosphere with great waves and a friendly surf community. Its proximity to Manila makes it an easy weekend escape for those looking to catch some waves.

• 4. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte: For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte offers pristine beaches and consistent surf. With fewer crowds, it’s the perfect place for surfers to enjoy nature and the waves in peace.

• 5. Lanuza, Surigao del Sur: This hidden gem is best known for its long rides and barrel sections, making it a favorite for more advanced surfers. Lanuza’s peaceful vibe and stunning scenery make it a great place for a surf retreat.

Why the Philippines is a Must-Visit for Surfers

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a treasure trove for surfing enthusiasts. The country’s diverse coastline means that whether you’re on the Pacific side or near the South China Sea, you’ll find waves that suit your style. Beyond the surf, the Philippines offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, making it a perfect destination for surfers and travelers alike.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The surfing season varies depending on the location, but generally, the best waves can be found from September to March.

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget your surfboard, sunscreen, and a rash guard to protect against the tropical sun.

Takeaway

Ready to hit the waves? Whether you're chasing the legendary breaks of Cloud 9 or exploring lesser-known spots, the Philippines has something for every surfer. 

Dive deeper into the top 10 surfing destinations by reading our full blog post here: Top 10 Surfing Destinations in the Philippines (kgmresorts.com)

Thank you for being part of the Finding Utopia community. Stay tuned for more travel inspiration in our next newsletter!

Amantaka: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week

Welcome to Luxury Resort Pick of the week! Published on October 17, this week we invite you to explore the serene beauty and timeless elegance of Amantaka, a luxury resort nestled in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos.

Amantaka: Where Heritage Meets Luxury

Amantaka is a serene sanctuary that embodies the perfect blend of French colonial charm and traditional Lao architecture. Set within lush grounds, this luxurious resort is housed in renovated buildings from the early 20th century, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of Luang Prabang in style and comfort.

Highlights of Amantaka

• Exquisite Accommodations: Amantaka offers a selection of spacious suites and pool villas, each designed with elegant touches that reflect the local heritage. The suites are thoughtfully arranged around a central courtyard, ensuring privacy and tranquility for every guest.

• Cultural Immersion: Guests at Amantaka have the unique opportunity to participate in authentic Lao experiences. From early-morning alms-giving ceremonies to guided tours of the surrounding temples and landmarks, the resort immerses you in the spiritual and cultural richness of Luang Prabang.

• World-Class Wellness: Relax and rejuvenate at the Amantaka Spa, where traditional Lao healing therapies are combined with modern wellness techniques. The spa offers a wide range of treatments designed to promote relaxation and well-being, ensuring that guests leave feeling completely restored.

• Dining Excellence: Savor the flavors of Laos at the resort’s signature restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients are transformed into exquisite dishes that celebrate the vibrant culinary heritage of the region. Whether enjoying a candlelit dinner in the courtyard or a private meal in your suite, Amantaka delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Luang Prabang is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and perfect for sightseeing.

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget to bring comfortable footwear for temple tours and light, breathable clothing to suit the warm tropical climate.

Takeaway

Amantaka is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination where luxury, history, and culture come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking peace and serenity or cultural exploration, Amantaka delivers it all in style.

 Discover the full magic of this Laotian gem by reading our full blog post here: Amantaka: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week (kgmresorts.com)

Thank you for being part of the Finding Utopia community. Stay tuned for more luxurious travel inspirations in our next newsletter!

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The Pulse: Biliran Welcomes Australian Cruise Ship for Scenic Island Visits!

Biliran - Fantastic news about the growing cruise tourism industry in the Philippines. Biliran is set to become a new must-visit destination as Coral Expeditions, an Australian cruise line, brings its ship, Coral Geographer, to three stunning locations on the island. This marks the second visit of the cruise line to Biliran after their successful trip last year.

A Scenic Island Adventure

On October 31, Coral Geographer will bring 120 visitors to Higatangan Island, located in Naval town. Following this, on November 4, the ship will make stops at Maripipi and Sambawan Islands, where visitors will explore picturesque landscapes and vibrant marine life.

During their stay, guests can engage in various activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and sampling local delicacies. Each destination will highlight the unique livelihoods and cultural traditions of the municipalities, offering a rich and immersive experience of Biliran’s vibrant community life.

Biliran: A Rising Star

Coral Expeditions has already described Maripipi as the "Isle of Gems" for its clear waters and pristine beaches. This return visit underscores Biliran's growing reputation as a top tourist destination in Eastern Visayas. It’s thrilling to see this serene island emerge as a favorite spot for adventure-seekers and cruise enthusiasts alike.

In addition to Biliran, the Coral Geographer will visit other breathtaking sites in the region, including Biri Island and Lalaguna Mangrove Eco-Park in Northern Samar, as well as Cuatro Islas in Leyte. The Department of Tourism continues to prioritize cruise tourism as a key driver for the region's economy, with Eastern Visayas growing in popularity since 2013.

A Bright Future for Eastern Visayas

The inclusion of Biliran and other scenic spots in cruise itineraries promises to boost tourism and contribute to the local economy. We can’t wait to see how this thriving industry continues to bring new opportunities to the people of Biliran and beyond!

Read more: Australian cruise ship to visit 3 destinations in Biliran Island | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)

Stay tuned for more updates on the growing tourism scene in the Philippines

The Pulse: A Celebration of Filipino Comfort Food at the Hotel and Restaurant Tourism (HRT) Event

This October, Filipino native delicacies and comfort food will take the spotlight in a major culinary event in Baguio City! The Hotel and Restaurant Tourism (HRT) weekend, running from October 24 to 26, will see over 400 participants—ranging from students to professional chefs—competing to create the finest renditions of iconic Filipino dishes.

A Showcase of Filipino Cuisine

Some of the traditional favorites to be featured include pinikpikan from the Cordillera, the savory pinakbet from the North, adobo, and dishes made with bagoong (shrimp paste) and vinegar. For dessert, Filipino sweets like kakanin, tupig, and puto bumbong will take center stage, delighting the senses with their rich flavors and textures.

In addition to the competition, local food establishments in Baguio City are offering special buffet snacks featuring beloved Filipino delicacies like puto, biko, and sapin-sapin.

Highlighting Filipino Comfort Food

As Anthony De Leon, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio (HRAB), pointed out, more people are embracing Filipino comfort food over fine dining. Comfort food is not only nostalgic but also accessible, making it a top choice for many. This event aims to emphasize that Filipino cuisine, with its rich flavors and variety, is more than capable of holding its own in international culinary settings.

Building Towards the Future

The winners of this competition will go on to represent the region in national food showdowns, ensuring that Filipino food continues to gain recognition both locally and abroad.

This event is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of Filipino heritage and culinary artistry, showcasing how our traditional dishes remain relevant and cherished, even on the global stage.

Read more: Native delicacies, cuisines take center stage in tourism event | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)

For more on this exciting celebration of Filipino cuisine, stay tuned to our next newsletter for more insights and updates!

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