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For snorkeling and scuba diving, retreat to the tiny island of Samalona, where bleached white sand melts into waters teeming with tropical marine life and coral reefs |
The surrounding Sulu Sea is a body of water known for its colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. There’ s plenty of opportunity for strolling picture-perfect beaches here, as well as sublime, freshly caught seafood.
When it comes to the city’ s past, Sandakan played a key role in Malaysia’ s history as an important trading port during British colonial rule. It also has a poignant connection with World War II, notably the Sandakan Death Marches, in! which prisoners of war endured forced marches and harsh conditions.
PUERTO PRINCESA, PHILIPPINES
Known for being the cleanest and greenest coastal city in the Philippines, Puerto Princesa is home to white-sand beaches, including the serene Sabang Beach on the west coast, as well as mangrove forests, nature parks, waterfalls, coral reefs and bays teeming with sea life. One of the most beautiful places is Honda Bay, on the eastern shore and sheltering a number
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of islands. It’ s dubbed the Philippines’ Last Frontier, thanks to its rich marine biodiversity, which includes the namesake organisms of Starfish Island. One of the biggest draws is its impressive cave system, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River: this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, chosen from around the world. Stretching for five miles, the subterranean attraction features ethereal limestone rock formations, verdant forest and distinctive wildlife—! expect to be greeted by resident monkeys when you arrive.
The capital of Palawan province is also the gateway to the unspoiled coastal region of El Nido as well as the sun-drenched Bacuit Archipelago, which is surrounded by limestone cliffs. For a refreshing tipple, duck into the Palaweño Brewery for a craft beer tasting. The city’ s food specialties include the saltwater delicacy tamilok( shipworm molluscs) and the savory pastry hopia, both found at Baker’ s Hill, the must-visit destination for lunch or a local snack.
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