bahrainthismonth.com | JUNE 2026 TRAVEL 51 Balabac Located in the southern region of Palawan, Balabac is among the country’s most remote island areas. Reaching it requires additional travel time and weather conditions often influence transport schedules throughout the region. The journey is rewarded with remarkably clear water, isolated islands and long stretches of undeveloped coastline. Large-scale tourism projects remain limited across much of the area. Balabac suits travellers who prioritise landscape and remoteness over convenience. Mobile signal can be inconsistent and infrastructure remains limited across several islands, though these conditions add to the sense of distance from more commercial destinations. Days in Balabac are shaped by open space, quiet surroundings and uninterrupted coastal scenery, with many islands feeling almost untouched. Bukidnon Bukidnon offers a side of the Philippines many travellers do not expect. Located in Mindanao, the province is defined by mountain roads, agricultural land and cooler temperatures than much of the country’s coastal regions. The scenery shifts throughout the day, particularly during early mornings when fog settles across parts of the landscape. Pine-covered slopes, ranches and elevated viewpoints create surroundings that differ significantly from the tropical island image commonly associated with the Philippines. Road trips remain one of the best ways to experience the province, allowing visitors to move gradually through smaller towns and open countryside. Cooler weather and wide mountain views give Bukidnon a completely different atmosphere from the country’s beach destinations. Batanes Situated at the northernmost edge of the Philippines, Batanes is known for rolling hills, rugged coastlines and rapidly changing weather conditions. The landscape differs significantly from the country’s tropical beach destinations, with strong winds and cloudy skies shaping much of the environment. The islands are also home to the Ivatan people, whose traditions remain closely connected to the surrounding landscape. Stone houses designed to withstand the weather continue to stand across several villages. Across the islands, daily life continues to revolve closely around the landscape and weather, contributing to a pace that feels noticeably removed from the rest of the country. The scenery alone makes Batanes unlike anywhere else in the Philippines. Samar Samar remains one of the Philippines’ least explored regions among international travellers. Dense forests, cave systems and river networks define much of the island, making it particularly appealing for travellers interested in outdoor exploration. Tourism infrastructure stays comparatively limited across several areas, which has helped preserve much of the natural environment. Waterfalls are often located deep within forested terrain, while cave systems continue to attract trekkers and adventure travellers. Samar offers a rugged travel experience shaped by landscape and exploration. For travellers looking for a more adventurous side of the Philippines, it remains one of the country’s most rewarding destinations.
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