Palawan has Asia’s top beaches, Conde Nast

In addition to underwater rivers and impressive coral formations, the breathtaking sugary beaches, coves and islets of the province of Palawan was voted as the tourist destination with the Best Beaches Overall in Asia by American magazine Conde Nast Traveler in its Great Asian Beach Finder review.

Conde Nast Traveler is one of the pioneering and most respected tourism publications in the world, catering to high-end luxury tourists and adventure seekers.

"Palawan is undoubtedly one of the Philippines’ prized jewels. This achievement validates the collaborative efforts of the department, the local government and the private sector in preserving and promoting the country’s nature attractions," said Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano.

Palawan, composed of 1,780 islands has also landed in the international travel polls of other magazines including SmartTravelAsia.com and Forbes Traveler.

In Conde Nast Traveler, the beaches of Palawan bested other first-rate destinations in the Asian region including Beach No. 7 in Havelock Island, India, the Nihiwatu Beach in Indonesia, and the Laem Tong Bay in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand which was made famous by the Hollywood movie "The Beach."

Palawan also bested the shores of Baa, North Ari and North Male Atolls in Maldives.

Conde Nast Traveler marveled at the various spectacular sites in the province. Among the Palawan attractions cited was the Tubbataha Reef Marine Park, located southeast of Puerto Princesa. The ecosystem is made up of two atolls that lie on a line of extinct underwater volcanoes and is a sanctuary for marine life.

The publication also noted the St. Paul Subterranean River, which boasts of nature-made limestone sculptures.

Both the reef and the underwater river are listed under the World Heritage Sites of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Conde Nast Traveler further explored the wonders of the Miniloc Island Resort and the world-famous private resort of Amanpulo.

A perfect diving spot, Secretary Durano also explained that most visitors travel to Palawan to witness the teeming marine life in the province.

"Palawan’s popularity should only encourage our other coastal towns to develop their areas for diving, snorkeling and other eco-tourism activities. The department is ready to help them to bring in more sustainable economic opportunities to their communities."