In a testament to the Philippines’ natural beauty and global appeal, four of its islands have been named among the top 10 best islands in Asia in the prestigious 2024 Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) Readers’ Choice Awards. Boracay, Palawan, Cebu & the Visayan Islands, and Siargao all made the coveted list, chosen by over 500,000 votes from CNT readers worldwide.
Philippine Islands Shine in the Rankings
Boracay, with its world-famous powdery white sands and stunning sunsets, secured the third spot with a score of 91.99. The island, which has undergone significant sustainability-focused improvements, was also named Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination at the 2024 World Travel Awards.
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Palawan, known for its breathtaking beaches and clear waters, placed sixth with a score of 90.68. The island continues to maintain its global status as a paradise due to its mystic beauty, having also ranked fourth in Tripadvisor’s 2024 Traveler’s Choice Awards for Best of the Best.
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Cebu & Visayan Islands, renowned for their rich cultural heritage and diverse natural attractions, took eighth place with a score of 90.29. Cebu has consistently been a favorite among travelers, previously earning the title of Best Island in Asia by CNT in 2020.
Siargao, the country’s premier surfing destination, rounded out the top 10 with a score of 89.2. Known for its laid-back vibe and top-notch waves, Siargao has also been recognized as one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, topping Lonely Planet’s list in July 2024.
The Philippines: A Consistent Global Favorite
The Philippines has been a strong performer in the CNT Readers’ Choice Awards for several years. Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao were also featured in the 2023 rankings, while Cebu made headlines in 2020 when it was named the Best Island in Asia. This sustained recognition highlights the country’s growing appeal to global travelers seeking both adventure and luxury.
The Impact on Philippine Tourism
With four islands ranked in the top 10, this achievement cements the Philippines’ position as one of the world’s top tropical destinations. Not only do these rankings celebrate the country’s stunning natural landscapes—from Boracay’s powdery white sands to Siargao’s legendary surf breaks and breathtaking destinations for island hopping—but they also highlight the rich cultural heritage and diverse experiences awaiting visitors. Each island offers something unique, from Palawan’s crystal-clear waters and lush marine life to Cebu’s vibrant history and local charm.
As international tourism continues to rebound, this global recognition is set to attract even more travelers to the Philippines, showcasing the archipelago as a must-visit destination for adventurers, culture seekers, and luxury travelers alike. Whether you’re drawn by the serene beaches, exciting water sports, or immersive cultural experiences, the Philippines delivers an unparalleled tropical getaway. So, pack your bags and prepare to explore some of the best islands Asia has to offer—right here in the Philippines!
Here’s the full list of Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Islands in Asia for 2024:
- Koh Samui, Thailand
- Langkawi, Malaysia
- Boracay, Philippines
- Sri Lanka
- Phú Quốc, Vietnam
- Palawan, Philippines
- Phuket, Thailand
- Cebu & Visayan Islands, Philippines
- Bali, Indonesia
- Siargao, Philippines
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