Palawan Rides the Next Wave of Island Travel

As travelers look beyond familiar holiday hotspots, Palawan is emerging as one of the world’s fastest-rising island destinations, strengthening the Philippines’ position in the increasingly competitive global tourism market.

Palawan rides the next wave of global island travel, drawing visitors with its limestone landscapes, pristine waters and extraordinary biodiversity. Its place on Expedia’s 2026 Island Hot List signals fresh opportunities for Philippine tourism. [Photo: DOT]

Expedia’s 2026 Island Hot List ranks Palawan sixth (6^th) among 10 trending destinations, following a 40 percent year-on-year increase in global flight searches. 

The online travel platform named the province the best island for natural wonders, citing its dramatic limestone formations, clear waters and pristine ecosystems.

The recognition places Palawan alongside St. Lucia, Porto Santo in Portugal, Praslin in the Seychelles, Syros in Greece and Norway’s Lofoten Islands. Expedia said searches for the featured destinations increased by an average of 55 percent, while social media mentions related to island travel rose 20 percent.

Importantly, these figures measure changes in travel interest rather than actual visitor arrivals.

They nevertheless offer an early indication of where future demand may be heading as travelers seek less crowded destinations, distinctive experiences and stronger value.

“Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away; they can also be one of the smartest vacation values, thanks to all-inclusive resorts and bundle savings on Expedia,” said Melanie Fish, vice president of public relations at Expedia Group Brands.

Image Source: Expedia

For Palawan, the momentum reflects the enduring appeal of discovery-led travel. Its limestone cliffs, protected landscapes and marine ecosystems provide the kind of immersive natural experience increasingly sought by travelers moving beyond conventional beach holidays.

Expedia also selected Carpe Diem Villas & Resort as its recommended Palawan property.

The four-star boutique resort in Barangay San Pedro, Puerto Princesa, offers a quiet, Balinese-inspired retreat around 10 to 15 minutes from Puerto Princesa International Airport.

Built in 2022, Carpe Diem features seven outdoor pools, private-pool villas, family accommodations, a swim-up bar, fitness facilities and spa services. Its location also allows guests to use the resort as a base for excursions to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Honda Bay and other nearby attractions.

The recognition of both Palawan and a locally based resort carries broader implications for Philippine tourism.

Global visibility can generate new opportunities for airlines, hotels, tour operators and surrounding communities.

Carpe Diem Villas & Resort brings intimacy-inspired luxury to the natural wonders of Palawan. Expedia named the Puerto Princesa retreat its recommended Palawan stay on its 2026 Island Hot List. [Photo: Carpe Diem Villas & Resort]

However, rising demand also places greater responsibility on government and industry leaders to protect natural assets, improve connectivity and ensure that tourism benefits are shared locally.

Palawan’s inclusion in Expedia’s list is therefore more than another travel accolade.

It is a signal of growing international curiosity and a reminder that the province’s, along with the Philippines’ long-term advantage depends on preserving the natural wonders that brought travelers there in the first place.