Palawan ranks 8th in 10 best places to visit in Asia Pacific

Coron in Palawan province is popular among tourists for its rock formations, white sand beaches, and rich marine life. (File photo by LYN RILLON / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — Travel website Lonely Planet has recognized Palawan as one of this year’s top 10 best places to visit in the Asia Pacific.

The popular tourist site placed in the eighth spot of this year’s list. Meanwhile, the Marina River and Southern West Australia bagged the top place.

“Long known as the Philippines’ last frontier, Palawan has ridden a slew of media accolades to the cusp of international superstardom. Fortunately, it’s not there yet,” Lonely Planet said.

The website also showcased the island’s well-known sites, such as “crown jewel” El Nido and Port Baton, considered a haven for backpackers.

Here is the complete top 10 list:

1. Margaret River and Southern WA, Australia
2. Shikoku, Japan
3. Bay of Islands and Northland, New Zealand
4. Singapore
5. The Cook Islands
6. Central Vietnam
7. Fiji
8. Palawan
9. Beijing, China
10. Cambodia