Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 10) – Palawan is once again recognized as the “best island in the world” in a survey conducted by renowned international travel magazine Travel+Leisure.

The New York-based travel magazine released its Top 25 Islands in the World list on Wednesday, where Palawan topped with 94.83 points.

Palawan previously held the title in 2013, 2016, and 2017.

“Though it’s difficult to reach from many parts of the world, once travelers get there they can dive in World War II wrecks, explore old-growth rain forests, and paddle one of the world’s longest subterranean rivers at Puerto Princesa,“ said Travel+Leisure writer Sara Clemence.

One fan wrote “the landscape and scenery are just gorgeous. It offers the most beautiful beaches, resorts, and scenery everywhere.”

Paros and Milos islands in Greece came in second and third on the list, while Sri Lanka and Koh Lanta island in Thailand completed the top five of the world’s best islands this year by the travel magazine.

Boracay, famous for its white-sand beaches, wound up in the 14th place and the 5th best island in Asia in the list.

In a statement, the Department of Tourism celebrated the feat of Palawan as the world’s best island.

“Palawan reclaimed its rightful place in the World’s Best Awards. The citation as the Best Island in the World is all the more important because this is voted upon by the readers of the prominent Travel + Leisure magazine,” said Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

Puyat added “it’s wonderful to see that our rehabilitation and sustainable development efforts last year, especially in El Nido and Coron, were well-received by tourists everywhere.”

Travel+Leisure said the survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

SOURCE: https://www.cnn.ph/lifestyle/2020/7/10/Palawan-recognized-anew-as--best-island-in-the-world-.html