Cover Ahmad Syukaery/Getty Images (Boracay

Local tourists can expect to return to some of the country’s most beautiful destinations—with a few added adjustments, of course

Tourism has always been an important part of the Philippine economy. The country’s pristine white coasts, undulating mountains and one-of-a-kind terrain make for wonderful memories (be it for adventure or relaxation). As travel restrictions continue to ease in the country, let us revisit some of our country’s most beloved destinations.

Boracay

Boracay, which has been lauded for its white-sand beaches and gentle shorelines, has reopened to tourists from areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ). Talks are also in place to remove age restrictions for visitors who wish to travel, so minors and senior citizens may soon be allowed entry. Visitors are required to go through an RT- PCR test one to two days before their arrival at Caticlan. They are also required to fill up the island’s online health declaration cards, which are accessible through the Aklan government website.

Despite all the added protocol, tourists will soon be able to enjoy a majestic sunset at Diniwid Beach, or a stroll at Puka Beach. Indulge in island eats such as Boracay’s calamansi muffins or four-cheese pizza. Relax in the privacy of your own suite at any of the island’s many resorts or simply marvel at all the beauty of one of the world’s best islands.

Read also: The Philippines Bags Its Fourth Win At The 2020 World Travel Awards Asia Winners Day

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Above arl Yongco/EyeEm (Baguio)

Strawberry cakes and much cooler weather: these are what visitors from Ilocos, Pangasinan and La Union can look forward to as Baguio reopens. Through this regional travel bubble, the city hopes to continue its economic recovery plan. Those who wish to visit Baguio must pre-register via the city's VIS.I.T.A app, downloadable on iOS and Android. A mandatory RT-PCR test is also required upon arrival, as is a quarantine period of up to nine hours to await test results. There is also a cap of 200 tourist arrivals per day.

After protocol is implemented, guests can finally enjoy all the best that Baguio has to offer. A leisurely walk through Burnham Park is a must, especially as signs of life begin to stir after the months-long lockdown. A meal at Session Road will be a sure help to homegrown restaurants whose businesses have only begun to pick up once more.

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Above Holly Patterson/EyeEm (El Nido)

Palawan

The towns of El Nido and Coron in Palawan, which rank high among the world’s best islands, are now open for local tourism. In El Nido, most hotels and resorts are open to Palawan-based residents; how- ever, one particular resort is open for Manila-based guests. Those staying at El Nido Resorts will be flown in on a leisure carrier to Lio Airport where they will undergo RT-PCR testing. Currently, El Nido Resorts is the only resort on the island to take guests from GCQ areas outside Palawan.

Coron, on the other hand, is only open to those from the Calamian Group of islands. These include Coron, Culion, Busuanga and Calauit.

Enjoy all the things that make Palawan an international wonderland. In El Nido, island hopping is permitted as long as people bring their own food and masks. Rentals for activities are also banned so visitors must bring their own snorkelling or diving gear. Nevertheless, Palawan’s powdery white sand beaches, rich marine ecosystems, limestone cliffs and magical lagoons are sure to win the hearts of every tourist.

Read also: 10 Luzon Destinations To Check Out For Your Next Road Trip

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