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The Philippines Department of Tourism (PDOT) is delighted that the Philippines has taken eighth place in Conde Nast Traveler’s Top 20 Countries in the World: Readers’ Choice Awards 2019, with a huge score of 90.63. Palawan’s Coron, El Nido and Linapacan, were among the top destinations that were listed. In addition, in the publication’s ‘Best Islands in Asia’ award, Boracay ranked first; Cebu and the Visayas islands were rated second; and Palawan was named fourth.

Norjamin Delos Reyes, Tourism Attaché at Philippine Department of Tourism Australia and New Zealand, said,

“We are absolutely delighted to be recognised in these prestigious awards.  To be named as the eighth favourite country in the world for travellers in this much coveted award win, whilst also being recognised for our beautiful islands, once again, is a huge honour.  We would like to thank the readers of Conde Nast Traveler.

“As a tourist, whether you enjoy island hopping, surfing, shopping, cultural and historic sites, dining, or seeking out UNESCO world heritage sites; as a destination, the stunning islands of Philippines offer a wide variety of activities, with something for everyone.”

Readers of Conde Nast Traveler also voted three Philippine islands as the best islands in Asia, with Boracay taking the top spot.  Following a rehabilitation period, only 19,000 tourists can stay on the island at any one time, and 6,405 tourists are allowed to enter the island per day.  Commenting on the win for ‘Best Island in Asia’, Ms Delos Reyes said,

“Boracay is a true tropical paradise; measuring just under four square miles, it boasts powdery white sand beaches, azure water and beautiful sunsets.  We are thrilled to claim the top two spots in these awards, with Cebu and Visayas Islands voted in second place which is not surprising as travellers are often left in awe of the white-sand beaches and spectacular diving spots. The stunning Palawan simply completes the win for us, voted into fourth place by readers. What a fantastic win for the Philippines!”

According to the most recent report carried out by the PDOT indicated a 14.08 percent year-on-year increase in international inbound traffic to the Philippines. According to the report, a total of 5,554,950 visitors between January to August 2019, indicating that foreign visitors’ interest in the Philippines continues to rise.

“Located a relatively short long-haul flight from Australia, the Philippines offers a convenient, relaxing and memorable holiday destination,” said Ms Delos Reyes.

The Philippines has never been more accessible, with Cebu Pacific launching a new Melbourne route last year, currently operating three weekly flights from Melbourne to Manila, plus five weekly flights from Sydney to Manila.  Qantas has also introduced a seventh weekly flight on its Sydney to Manila route, whilst PAL offers six weekly flights from Sydney, along with five weekly flights from Brisbane and Melbourne to Manila.