THE WORLD IS FALLING FOR PALAWAN ALL OVER AGAIN

Palawan hardly needs another award, but it is always nice to see the world fall for it all over again. This time, the booking platform Expedia is handing the Philippine paradise its flowers.

Expedia recently unveiled its 2026 Island Hot List, and Palawan landed one of the 10 coveted spots. Drawn from the platform’s flight search data, the annual list spotlights what Expedia calls the “Next Wave of island destinations gaining momentum,” emerging places where travelers are headed for natural beauty, cultural depth, and, at times, better value.

Every island on the list earned its own title, and Palawan’s came as no surprise: Best for Natural Wonders. From the secluded white-sand coves of El Nido to the underwater treasures of Coron, its charms are well known. Expedia clearly agrees, describing it as a “natural fit for travelers chasing awe-inspiring scenery and discovery-led adventure.” The platform pointed to its iconic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoon waters, and thriving marine ecosystems.

The ranking leans on data as much as beauty. It was compiled by analyzing global flight search trends on Expedia between September 22, 2025, and March 22, 2026, for trips planned throughout 2026, then compared with the same period the year before.

“Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away, they can also be one of the smartest vacation values,” says Melanie Fish, Head of Expedia Group Brands Public Relations, noting that travelers are choosing all-inclusive stays and bundled deals.

The honor is all the sweeter given how selective the list is. Only 10 islands made the cut for 2026. Palawan placed sixth overall and is one of just two Asian islands featured, sharing the regional spotlight with Phu Quoc, Vietnam, named Best for Affordable Luxury. The top spot went to the Caribbean jewel St. Lucia, crowned Best for Romantic Escapes.

The complete Expedia 2026 Island Hot List, in order, is St. Lucia (Best for Romantic Escapes), Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal (Best for Wellness & Relaxation), Praslin, Seychelles (Best for Nature Lovers), Syros, Greece (Best for Cuisine & Charm), Lofoten Islands, Norway (Best for Arctic Adventures), Palawan, Philippines (Best for Natural Wonders), Culebra, Puerto Rico (Best for Water Adventures), Sanibel Island, Florida, USA (Best for Family Escapes), Phu Quoc, Vietnam (Best for Affordable Luxury), and Fiji (Best for Multi-Generational Value).

For more information, visit Expedia’s website.

This story originally appeared on spot.ph. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

#DestinationPH #Palawan #ExpediaHotList #BestIslands #TravelPhilippines

May be an image of beach and text

Shared post