TRAVELSPECIAL
Pelagic thresher shark at Kimud Shoal, Malapascua
PHOTO: SIMON ROGERSON
Boat dives on traditional bankas [ wooden outriggers ] took us further out, where we discovered frogfish, nudibranchs, shrimps, seahorses, and shoals of amberjacks sweeping past in silver flashes. Macro or wide-angle, this is diving that satisfies both ends of the photographic spectrum. That initial taste convinced us: the Philippines had much more to offer.
Storms and turtles in Panglao
Our next adventure was a brief four-day stay in Panglao on the island of Bohol, where monsoon winds kept the banka rides lively. Alona Beach looked idyllic from afar, but the reality was a little different— construction work, hawkers, and the kind of growing pains that often come with rapid tourism.
Still, the diving delivered. On Pamilacan
Island, we glided over vibrant reefs bursting with fish. One dive brought us face-to-face with seven turtles in succession, each as relaxed as if we weren’ t there. Conditions may not have been perfect, but the underwater world more than made up for it.
Wreck Heaven in Coron
Few places capture divers’ imaginations quite like Coron, often called the‘ second Truk Lagoon’. Over two visits we sampled both sides of the area— laid-back Busuanga, where sunsets over the bay were unforgettable, and bustling Coron Town, complete with rooftop pools and lively breweries.
We dived with both Pirate Divers and Easy Diving, finding each to be professional, well-equipped, and rich in local knowledge.
The next generation of anemonefish
The amazing wunderpus at Dauin
60 A beautiful clown frogfish