With more than 7,000 islands scattered across warm tropical seas, the vast archipelago of the Philippines offers extraordinary diversity for intrepid travellers: coral reefs alive with colour, jungle-clad volcanoes ripe for hiking and some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet.

This is a country that rewards curiosity — and still feels wonderfully underexplored.

In this episode of Wanderlust: Off the Page, Aaron Millar is joined by travel writer and long-time Wanderlust contributor Mark Stratton, who shares why he keeps returning to the Philippines — and why it remains one of his favourite destinations in the world.

Follow us on the road less travelled to one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding destinations.

Highlights include:

• Discovering why the Philippines’ 7,000+ islands still feel like one of travel’s great frontiers — and how spontaneity shapes the experience.

• Exploring Luzon, from the vibrant streets of Manila to the breathtaking Banaue Rice Terraces, carved into the mountains thousands of years ago.

• Snorkelling with vast shoals of sardines, swimming alongside gentle whale sharks, and experiencing the Philippines’ world-class marine biodiversity.

• Island hopping through the Visayas, including Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Siquijor’s quiet beaches, and Palawan’s spectacular limestone islands and hidden coves.

If you’re dreaming of turquoise seas, meaningful encounters, and the thrill of discovering somewhere that still feels open-ended, this episode might just move the Philippines to the top of your list.

FIND OUT MORE

Download the Philippines official travel app - Travel Philippines

Plan your journey to the Philippines at itsmorefuninthephilippines.co.uk

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PhilippinesinUK/

Instagram @philippines_uk

Email: info@pdotlondon.co.uk

Connect with Mark Stratton on his website: MarkStrattonTravels.com

Read the accompanying article, and see the photos at wanderlustmagazine.com

• The Wanderlust Guide to the Best of the Philippines
• Island Hopping in the Philippines (Mark Stratton)

WANDERLUST: OFF THE PAGE
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CREDITS
This episode was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry.
Lyn Hughes and Laura Field introduce the show. Aaron Millar is the interviewer and script editor. Audio production by Charles Tyrie.