Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan Once Again Dominate the World’s Best Islands List!

by TopTen.ph · August 25, 2022

When Filipinos say that the Philippines is a beautiful island paradise, they mean no exaggeration by it. Even foreigners can attest to how grandiose the beaches are, how magnificent the mountains are, and how warm the people are upon their visit. Hence, it is no wonder why, once again, the Pearl of the Orient nabbed three spots on Travel + Leisure’s most sought-after list of the world’s best islands.

Every year, the New York-based travel magazine surveys its readers to weigh in on the travel experiences they have had around the globe and share their opinions regarding the best cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. With COVID-19 health restrictions slowly being eased, many have taken the chance to finally visit the much-acclaimed destinations around the world to do sightseeing, take a dip into those clear, blue waters, taste world-class dishes, and immerse in the wonderful culture of the locals.

Travel + Leisure readers were tasked with rating the island destinations they deem as the best according to their activities and sights, natural attractions, beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. Most of those that made it to the top spot boast crystalline sands and thriving marine life that can be experienced by seasoned and neophyte divers alike, such as the Maldives, Bali in Indonesia, and Thailand’s very own Phuket.

Readers have also chosen islands that are noted for their rich culture, food, ancient ruins, and unsurpassable food, like Milos, Greece, and Ibiza, Spain. Also making it to this list is Vietnam’s Phu Quoc, which has gained popularity because of its white-sand beaches and delectable cuisine. It can be recalled that the island rose to fame for its production of fish sauce and peppercorns—not to mention its astonishing coral reefs and dense tropical forest.

The Philippine Islands are Hailed as the Best in the World

Flaunting its postcard-perfect sunset view, Boracay ranks 9^th in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Island list. With its idyllic lagoon, El Nido, Palawan makes it to the 11^th spot, while Cebu’s Taoist Temple in Cebu City marks its spot at the 16^th.

Needless to say, the Philippines remains unrivaled when it comes to activities, destinations, and food. The Department of Tourism expressed its heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all tourism stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors, for their continuous efforts to contribute to the country’s progress in terms of hospitality and tourism. As shared by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, “The natural beauty of the country truly shines through when we are united in heralding our best qualities.”

The 25 Best Islands in the World According to Travel + Leisure Magazine

With an astounding score of 94.61, Ischia, Italy leads this year’s list of the Best Islands in the World after being featured in the prominent novel “My Brilliant Friend,” written by Elena Ferrante—to which an adaptation was recently made by HBO. Aside from its picturesque villages, thermal springs, and unspoiled beaches, readers have emphasized how nice and helpful the locals were during their visit.

Here’s the complete list of the best islands in the world as surveyed by Travel + Leisure Magazine.